lumbar sympathetic blocks

[pdn]

hi, have had various injections for PN over the years including trans -gluteal and sacral nerves and sacral hiatus without much help. dr. Quesada said recently that in France they are having some success for PN with lumbar sympathetic blocks. sympathetic blocks are generally used in complex regional pain syndrome,CRPS. my symptoms are not particlarly like CRPS symptoms so wondering if others have has this block or injection, and know more about this. thanks,pdn

[Celeste]

dr. Quesada said recently that in France

Did he happen to say which doctor in France is using these blocks? I'm curious.

[pdn]

hi Celeste, don't remember which dr. or group in France that Dr. Quesada was referring too, pdn

[merrie]

I have had a number of sympathetic blocks - I get them about every 6-8 weeks. They absolutely help control the pain on a short term basis but have not helped long term. My dr is going to try a different med in the block next time (marcaine instead of lidocaine) to see if I get any longer term benefit. Please feel free to ask any additional questions.

merrie

[pdn]

hi merrie, did your dr. consider the lumbar sympathetic ganglion blocks because you had symptoms of CRPS, complex regional pain syndrome, like skin color changes or swelling versus the more typical pn symptoms???? or that was the next thing after the other kinds of injections didn't help like in my situation??? who is your dr.?? thnks, pdn

[merrie]

I have CRPS symptoms as well as pne. The sympathetic blocks ( I have had lumbar, pelvic and splachnic) help more with the CRPS symptoms than the PNE itself. The PN blocks did not works for me (first one short lived relief, second one huge several month flare) and the various S2-S4 blocks I had worked at first but then started giving me terrible sacral pain. My dr is Dr Sheldon Jordan in Los Angeles.

Merrie

[pianogal]

does Dr. Quesada know where they do the lumbar blocks? I've had ganglion impar blocks done but with no help whatsoever.

[pdn]

hi, the lumbar sympathetic blocks are targeting the ganglion just like ganglion impar are but lower in the body. Merrie, thanks for additional info, pdn

[carolynm]

Merrie,
I"m curious to know what Dr. Hibner suggested to you last year. Since you are getting relief from blocks, was surgery not indicated for you?

thanks,
cari

[JanetM]

I have heard about these sympathetic blocks. It's too bad that it is only for short term pain relief. Merrie, I would love to hear what other blocks your doctor is considering. I wonder if it would help to have your doctor recommend someone with expertise in pain management? Good luck on finding something that works for you and hopefully you find something that can last on a longer term.