Nerve Blocks or Botox Injections

[Farce6537]

I have been diagnosed with pudential neuralgia a hypertonic pelvic floor. I’ve been discussing nerve blocks or Botox injections with my pelvic floor therapist. I’m not super onboard with getting these injections because of the side effects. For the Botox injections, I’m worried it causes incontinence making me have no ability to control my bowels. Would I have to wear diapers? How would that even work? For the nerve block, I’m worried it damages my nerves long term and causes more nerve pain. I’m currently trying out dry needling as a substitute because I’m not ready to make the decision yet. What is your experience with either of these? Would you recommend it?

[Violet M]

You are smart to research your options before trying things. I haven't had Botox - my gyn advised against it since it is a temporary solution and wears off after several months. From what patients have said on this forum, it has mixed reviews with a few people having a bad reaction to it. But for some people who are in a lot of pain it can give them a few months of much-needed pain relief and continued pain relief if they keep repeating it. Most people haven't complained of incontinence but it's not unheard of.

Pudendal nerve blocks don't seem to be a long-term solution for pain relief for most people who post on this forum. I see them as a good tool for helping with a diagnosis though. I had a series of 3 with only temporary (several hours) of pain relief, and then a flare-up for less than a month. Some people have a long-term increase in pain from nerve blocks, especially if they get a lot of them, but most people don't have a problem.

Wishing you the best as you make a decision. I know it's difficult to decide. There is always a risk/benefit analysis and I think if your pain is minor, it makes sense to try conservative therapies first. If pain is severe you tend to reach a point where you are willing to try just about anything. That's where I was at one point.

Violet