Have you experienced a fall, motor vehicle accident or an impact during sports and now have chest pain? If so, you may be suffering from a rib fracture. The physicians at OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine® specialize in a rib fracture treatment called intercostal nerve block. This procedure can help patients living in the Arlington, Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas area get relief from pain associated with a rib fracture.
What is a Rib Fracture?
A fractured rib is a common injury that occurs when one of the bones in the rib cage breaks or cracks. This injury typically occurs from a direct impact to the ribs. Ribs can also experience a fracture from repetitive sports such as rowing and golf. The most common symptom of a rib fracture is pain that worsens when an individual takes a deep breath, bends or twists the body, or presses on the injured area. Many fractured ribs heal with at-home care, but in some cases a rib fracture treatment is needed such as an intercostal nerve block.
What is an Intercostal Nerve Block?
An intercostal nerve block is a rib fracture treatment designed to treat pain in the chest and upper abdomen. The intercostal nerve is located between the ribs throughout the thoracic area. When a steroid, anesthetic or pain medication is injected in to that area, the transmission of pain signals is diminished and inflammation is reduced. The intercostal nerve block procedure only takes a few minutes. During this time, the injection of a local anesthetic or steroid is injected under the rib by a small needle.
What are the Benefits and Risks of an Intercostal Nerve Block?
The intercostal nerve block procedure is a short outpatient visit that is capable of relieving pain for several months. This rib fracture treatment is safe, however, some patients may experience pain at the injection site, bruising, bleeding, infection or nerve damage.
To learn more about intercostal nerve block and how this rib fracture treatment can help patients in the Arlington, Fort Worth and Dallas, Texas area, please contact OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine®.