What does nerve block mean?
Neural blockade generally refers to a technique of local anesthesia.
In clinical practice, neural blockade primarily involves the use of chemical or physical methods applied around nerve ganglia, nerve roots, plexuses, nerve trunks, or nerve endings to temporarily or permanently interrupt their conduction function. For example, in upper limb surgery, brachial plexus block anesthesia is commonly used, which typically requires injecting local anesthetic near the nerve plexus to numb the entire upper limb—including the forearm, upper arm, and hand—thus facilitating successful surgical procedures. Additionally, this method can also be used for treating nerve inflammation, nourishing nerves, and managing various types of pain, such as cervical spondylosis, neck and shoulder pain, lumbar spine disorders, and trigeminal neuralgia.
Neural blockade usually offers good therapeutic outcomes, with minimal invasiveness, simple operation, and typically does not require hospitalization after treatment. It is generally well accepted by patients and can help dilate local blood vessels, regulate nerve function, and promote local blood circulation.