Title: Sympathetic Nerve Blocks for Pain - Health Encyclopedia - University of Rochester Medical Center
Headings: Sympathetic Nerve Blocks for Pain
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Sympathetic Nerve Blocks for Pain
What is a sympathetic nerve block?
Why might I need a sympathetic nerve block?
What are the risks of a sympathetic nerve block?
How do I get ready for a sympathetic nerve block?
What happens during a sympathetic nerve block?
What happens after a sympathetic nerve block?
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Sympathetic Nerve Blocks for Pain
What is a sympathetic nerve block? A sympathetic nerve block helps your provider find the cause of the burning, pain,  or tingling in your arms and hands or legs and feet. During the test, medicine is  injected near your spine. This “blocks” the sympathetic nerves in that area. The sympathetic nervous system is a network of nerves all over your body. The nerves  branch from your spine. This nervous system controls several involuntary body functions,  or body functions that you have no control over. These include blood flow (opening  and closing of blood vessels), digestion, and opening the sweat glands. A problem  with these nerves can affect blood flow. Symptoms are often felt in the hands or feet.