The Use of Stellate Ganglion Block in Treatment Resistant Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Today, we wanted to discuss a procedure that many of our patients are opting for instead of or in addition to IV ketamine that may help with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD: the stellate ganglion block.The stellate ganglion block is a type of nerve block or injection used to treat chronic pain and other symptoms related to PTSD. It works by blocking the transmission of nerve signals in the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling the body's fight-or-flight response. By doing this, the procedure can help reduce anxiety and improve mood in people with PTSD. The procedure begins with a local anesthetic being injected into the neck area near the stellate ganglion, which is located at the base of your neck on either side of your spine. This injection helps numb any pain from the needle and also helps relax your muscles so that it's easier for your doctor to insert it into the correct spot. Once your doctor has successfully inserted the needle into place, they will then inject a medication called bupivacaine or lidocaine into the area around your stellate ganglion. This medication works by blocking nerve signals so that they are unable to reach their intended target, which can help reduce symptoms associated with PTSD such as anxiety and depression. After this step is complete, your doctor will give you some instructions on how to care for yourself following the procedure. These instructions might include taking over-the-counter medications for pain relief, applying ice packs to reduce swelling in the area, avoiding strenuous activities for a few days after treatment, and scheduling follow up visits with your doctor to monitor progress. The results of a stellate ganglion block can last anywhere from several weeks up to several months depending on individual factors such as age, overall health condition and response to treatment. Additionally, if you have any adverse reactions or side effects such as nausea or dizziness after receiving this treatment then it's important that you let your doctor know right away so they can adjust or discontinue treatment if necessary. Overall, if you're looking for an alternative way to reduce symptoms associated with PTSD then a stellate ganglion block might be an option worth considering. Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first before making any decisions about treatment as they will be able to assess whether this type of procedure would be right for you and provide more detailed information about what happens during and after it takes place.
At StrIVeMD Wellness and Ketamine in Chicago, Frisco/Dallas, and Miami Beach, we offer ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion blocks to help with treatment resistant PTSD. With a team comprised of physicians board-certified in adult and pediatric anesthesiology, pain medicine, and functional medicine, and certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNA) with pediatric ICU nursing, we are the most comprehensive team from the nation’s best medical institutions to take care of patients of any age including adolescents and geriatric patients. We work with your mental health provider to ensure safety and effectiveness of our program. If you or someone has a mental health disease that is worsening, or fighting a chronic medical condition, please call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to email us at info@strivemdwellness.com.
Take care and stay safe.
StrIVeMD Wellness & Ketamine, Chicago, Dallas, Miami Beach