Medical Branch Blocks

About Medial Branch Blocks

Facet joints are small joints on either side of each vertebra in the spinal column that allow us to bend forward and backward. A medial branch nerve block temporarily interrupts the pain signal to a specific facet joint. In most cases, a set of two medial branch nerve blocks will be scheduled. The diagnostic blocks help to find out whether the facet joints are the cause of the back pain. The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

doctor discussing spine with patient

How is the procedure performed and what should I expect?

The procedure is done using fluoroscopy (live X-ray guidance). A local anesthetic is injected into the skin and deeper tissues prior to placement of the needles for the block. The procedure is done for diagnostic purposes, which means to determine the source of your pain. If the source of your pain is from these joints, you should have pain relief for a period of 2-6 hours depending on what medication was used. If pain relief is substantial after the block, this will help in determining the next step of treatment. Contact Zion Medical today.

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Locations

Port Orange Clinic

Orthopedics & Neurosurgery
  • Phone: (386) 317-5149
  • Fax: (386) 492-7348
  • 870 Dunlawton Ave., Suite 109, Port Orange
  • Hours: Mon – Thu | 8:30 am – 5 pm
  • Hours: Friday | 8:00 am – 4 pm
Map of Port Orange

Palm Coast Clinic

Orthopedics & Neurosurgery
  • Phone: (888) 997-3952
  • Fax: (386) 492-7348
  • 9 Pine Cone Drive, Suite 104A, Palm Coast
  • Hours: Mon – Thu | 8:30 am – 5 pm
  • Hours: Friday | 8:00 am – 4 pm
Map of Port Orange

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Patient Testimonials

Brenda Hall

The staff and doctor have greatly helped my condition. They love what they do and it shows. Keep shining because the world always needs care, and you are the best!

Nick Cangemi

Went to Zion Medical for a knee injury, which turned out to be a torn ACL. The amazing doctors and staff were able to successfully surgically repair my ACL, and I was back on the pickleball courts faster than initially assumed! I would never recommend another orthopedist before Dr. McGraw!

Brittany Hodges

Got a shot in my back yesterday by Dr Thomas. Was not ready for or expecting this weird uncomfortable sensation the shot gave, but putting my trust in him, I am feeling like a million bucks today!!! Thanks to everyone there for a quick comfortable visit and finally some real relief

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