Medial Branch Block in North Branch, MN | Sage Spine Pain and Nerve Center

Do you experience persistent back pain or neck pain due to arthritis in the joints of your spine? Medial branch blocks are the treatment that could provide you with relief. In North Branch, MN, at Sage Spine Pain and Nerve Center, Dr. Andrew Clary, DO, conducts precise medial branch blocks for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of spine pain.

Call us today at 651-337-8201 to schedule your evaluation.

What Is a Medial Branch Block?

Medial Branch Block is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure performed to help identify the source of your back or neck pain. The source may be the facet joint of your spine.

Facet joints are small joints situated between two vertebrae and at the back of each vertebra. These joints stabilize your spine while providing flexibility. Facet joints can degenerate and become inflamed with age and result in considerable pain. Medial branch nerves are tiny nerves carrying pain signals from facet joints to the brain.

Medial Branch Blocks numb the tiny nerves with a local anesthetic, thereby:

·        Identify the precise cause of your pain

·        Serve as temporary pain relief (usually for hours or days)

·        Help predict your response to radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

Conditions Treated with Medial Branch Blocks

Medial Branch Blocks can be administered for pain diagnosis and management when the pain arises from:

·        Facet Joint Osteoarthritis

·        Chronic Lower Back Pain

·        Chronic Neck Pain

·        Post-Spinal Surgery pain (Failed Back Surgery Syndrome)

·        Whiplash Injury

·        Spondylosis

If the origin of the pain is found to be from the facet joints, then a Medial Branch Block is usually administered before Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) which may relieve pain for 6-12 months.

How Does a Medial Branch Block Work?

Before the Procedure

Your case history, images, such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, and physical exam will be reviewed by Dr. Andrew Clary, DO, to assess whether you are a suitable candidate for the medial branch block procedure.

Procedure

·        Time: 15–30 minutes

·        Sedation: Mild sedation may be provided, but some patients manage the procedure without any sedation, relying on local anesthetic alone

·        Fluoroscopy/Ultrasound: Used for precise placement of the needle during the injection

·        Injection: Local anesthetic is applied around the medial branches of the nerves near the involved facet joint

Post-procedure

After the procedure, you will be observed for a short time after which you may go home. You will be able to return to your usual activities the same day; however, you need to refrain from vigorous exercise for one day.

What to Expect: Diagnostic vs. Therapeutic Value

Diagnostic Phase

A medial branch block is primarily done for diagnostic purposes. Should you get a substantial amount of pain relief (at least 50%) in a couple of hours post-procedure, then it will mean that your pain is originating from your facet joints.

Therapeutic Phase

Though the effects of medial branch block are not permanent (just hours to a couple of days), it means that you are a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation (RFA). This procedure entails the use of heat in disrupting the medial branch nerves.

Two successful diagnostic medial branch blocks are usually needed for one to be qualified for RFA.

Why Choose Sage Spine Pain and Nerve Center for Your Medial Branch Block?

Expertise in Spine Pain Management

Dr. Andrew Clary, DO, is highly trained in performing interventional pain management and spine-specific procedures. He will use his excellent skills and diagnostic acumen to make sure your medial branch block is done properly.

Fluoroscopy-Guided Injection

All medial branch blocks performed at our North Branch facility are done using fluoroscopic guidance, ensuring optimal placement of medications.

Close to Home, Expert Care

People from North Branch, Chisago County and the surrounding communities (such as Cambridge, Rush City, Lindstrom and Forest Lake) do not have to leave the area to get advanced diagnostics of their spine issues anymore. Sage Spine Pain and Nerve Center has brought expert level care right to you!

Comprehensive Treatment Plan

In addition to doing diagnostic procedures, we offer comprehensive treatment plans. After a successful medial branch block, Dr. Clary can discuss your treatment plan options which include:

·        Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)

·        Physical therapy

·        Exercise regimens

·        Medication management

·        Lifestyle changes

Insurance & Coverage

Medial Branch Blocks are generally reimbursed by all insurances, including Medicare and almost all other health insurance companies. Our office will confirm your insurance coverage and get prior approvals if needed prior to your treatment.

Please call 651-337-8201 for more information.

Common Questions About Medial Branch Blocks

Is the medial branch block painful?

For the most part, patients report little to no pain. Local anesthetics are applied to numb the skin and deeper layers of tissue prior to treatment. Pressure and stinging sensation are possible; however, pain should not be experienced.

How long does the pain relief last?

The diagnostic nerve block serves as temporary pain relief lasting anywhere from several hours to days. When successful, the medial branch block determines that you are eligible for radiofrequency ablation providing relief for up to 6-12 months.

What are the dangers?

Medial branch blocks have been proven safe. Temporary tenderness in the injection area, bruising, and in very rare cases, infection or bleeding can occur. Dr. Clary will explain all potential complications during your consultation.

How many medial branch blocks do I need?

Generally speaking, medical insurance companies require two successful medial branch blocks done on different occasions before considering radiofrequency ablation treatment.

Can I drive myself to the appointment and back home?

Depending on the type of anesthesia you receive, we may either allow you to drive or recommend having somebody else take you home.

When to Consider a Medial Branch Block

Medial branch blocks would be appropriate for the following conditions:

·        Chronic back and neck pain that is not responding to non-operative treatment measures

·        Pain that increases with spinal extension and rotation

·        Pain located in the midline or paraspinals

·        Normal or inconclusive imaging studies even with ongoing symptoms

·        Post-spine surgery pain with possible involvement of the facet joints

Take the First Step Toward Accurate Diagnosis and Lasting Relief

Don’t let chronic spine pain control your life. If you’re searching for a medial branch block in North Branch, MN, trust the expertise of Dr. Andrew Clary, DO, and the team at Sage Spine Pain and Nerve Center.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation:

📞 Call: 651-337-8201