Lumbar medial branch blocks are test injections used when the small facet joints in the lower back may be contributing to pain.
How do they work?
Medial branch nerves carry pain signals from the facet joints. Under X-ray guidance, a small amount of local anaesthetic is placed near selected nerves. The anaesthetic wears off, so relief from a diagnostic block may be temporary.
Why keep a pain diary?
Your response helps Professor Bateman judge whether these joints may be contributing to your usual pain and whether radiofrequency denervation is worth considering. It is useful to record your pain and what you can do during the hours after the injection. A positive response helps guide a decision; it does not guarantee that a later treatment will work.
What are the alternatives and risks?
Alternatives include continuing with exercise, physiotherapy, medication and other self-management measures. You may have temporary soreness. Infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and unintended numbness or weakness are possible complications.
Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines and possible pregnancy before the procedure. Follow the advice you are given about transport and driving.
Read about lumbar radiofrequency denervation →
Detailed patient leaflet
Read Professor Bateman’s information leaflet before your procedure and bring any questions to your consultation.
Open the PDF leaflet →