The Lumbar Sympathetic Block (LSB) is a specialized procedure performed by a Pain Management Specialist to help block the abnormal pain signal related to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). The pain associated with CRPS usually travels from a painful leg or ankle to the lumbar sympathetic nervous system.

During the procedure the Pain Specialist will carefully place a needle in the necessary area, most commonly with Fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance. Once the needle is in place a local anesthetic (numbing agent) is injected along the sympathetic nerves. If the pain signal is traveling through this pathway then the procedure will cause significant pain relief. Pain relief may last from several hours to an even longer term (depending on medications used), but a series of injections may be needed to obtain the maximum benefit. It may be helpful to have physical therapy along with your injection procedure to achieve the best outcome.

Recovery usually takes 30-45 minutes. After this time frame the patient is discharged with appropriate instructions to an accompanying adult who will drive the patient home. Following the procedure there may be temporary warmth and flushing in the leg. This is completely normal. You will be given a pain diary to keep track of the effectiveness of the block.