During a Dual Sympathetic Block procedure your doctor injects a local anesthetic into your Stellate Ganglion nerve cluster (on the side of your neck). The anesthetic immediately numbs the nerve cluster and resets the sympathetic nervous system.
The process is typically completed in under 15 minutes. After the injection your doctor will monitor your body’s initial response to the block.
Dual Sympathetic Block
What is a Dual Sympathetic Block?​
Also known as the Stellate Ganglion Block, the Dual Sympathetic Block (DSB) temporarily resets the sympathetic nervous system and blocks the transmission of pain signals.
Common Conditions
CRPS causes burning or stinging sensations across the arms and/or legs. Type 1 of CRPS typically develops after an illness and does not cause nerve damage. Type 2 typically develops after nerve damage caused by an injury, infection, or illness. Other symptoms include changes in skin temperature and texture, swelling, and decreased mobility of the affected area.
Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating. By resetting the nervous system, Dual Sympathetic Blocks recalibrate any aggravated sympathetic responses.
What are the Benefits?​
Dual Sympathetic Blocks are efficient outpatient procedures that don't require any major incisions or significant downtime.
 By resetting the nervous system's heightened state, DSBs can help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Blocking signals along the sympathetic nervous system may reduce constriction of blood vessels.
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DSBs reset the nervous system's heightened fight-or-flight state, giving the body a break from anxiety, fear, or aggravation.
What to Expect
During Treatment
After Treatment
Following your Dual Sympathetic Block treatment, you will likely experience some after-effects, including: a temporary eye drooping and redness, congestion, and extra warmth in your face and arm. Don’t worry, these reactions are expected and are a positive sign that the block is in the correct place. These symptoms typically last for 6-8 hours.
Other side effects may include hoarseness and difficulty swallowing. These usually resolve within hours as well.
Find out if a Dual Sympathetic Block is right for you​
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Common Questions
Does the procedure hurt?
You may feel some discomfort from the injection. If you are worried, you can speak to your doctor about anesthetic and/or numbing options.
Are there any associated risks?
Side effects are rare. But some patients do experience dizziness, bruising and tenderness around the injection site, and allergic reactions to the block.
How long will relief from a DSB last?
The duration of relief varies by patient. Some patients experience several months of pain relief following one DSB procedure.
