Celiac Plexus Blocks: Effective Relief for Chronic Abdominal Pain

Chronic abdominal pain can be debilitating, making everyday activities difficult. Whether caused by pancreatitis, cancer, or nerve-related disorders, persistent pain in the upper abdomen requires an advanced pain management approach. Celiac Plexus Blocks offer a highly effective, non-surgical solution for individuals seeking relief.

At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in interventional pain management treatments like Celiac Plexus Blocks to help patients regain comfort and quality of life.

What is a Celiac Plexus Block?

A Celiac Plexus Block is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the celiac plexus, a cluster of nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the abdomen. By injecting anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication near these nerves, the treatment can significantly reduce or eliminate pain from:

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Abdominal cancers such as pancreatic, liver, and stomach cancer
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Post-surgical abdominal pain

This procedure is often recommended for patients who have not responded to oral pain medications or want to reduce their reliance on opioids.

‍Learn more about pain therapy treatments at Ascend Pain & Wellness.

‍Who is a Candidate for a Celiac Plexus Block?

‍You may benefit from a Celiac Plexus Block if you:

• Experience chronic abdominal pain that disrupts your daily activities
• Suffer from pancreatitis, abdominal cancer, or digestive disorders
• Want to avoid or minimize the use of opioid pain medications
• Have not found relief from traditional treatments

If you’re unsure whether this treatment is right for you, our specialists at Ascend Pain & Wellness will evaluate your condition and recommend the best approach.

‍Explore other non-surgical pain treatments for abdominal pain management.

‍How is a Celiac Plexus Block Performed?Step 1: Pre-Procedure Consultation

• A comprehensive evaluation, including imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, or fluoroscopy, determines the exact location of the pain source.
• Patients may receive mild sedation to ensure comfort during the procedure.

Step 2: Injection Process

• A thin needle is inserted near the spine using advanced imaging guidance.
• A combination of local anesthetic and steroid medication is injected to block pain signals from the celiac plexus.
• The procedure is completed within 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 3: Recovery and Results

• Most patients go home the same day with only mild soreness at the injection site.
• Pain relief may begin within hours or a few days and can last weeks to months.
• Some patients may require multiple treatments for long-term relief.

Learn more about epidural steroid injections for managing spinal and nerve pain.

‍Benefits of a Celiac Plexus Block

• Fast-acting pain relief, with many patients noticing improvement within 24 to 48 hours
• Minimally invasive procedure with no surgery required
• Reduction or elimination of the need for opioid medications
• Improved ability to perform daily activities with significantly less pain

Read about other pain management techniques available at Ascend Pain & Wellness.

‍Expected Results and Long-Term Outlook

‍Most patients report a significant reduction in pain for weeks to several months following a Celiac Plexus Block. For some, repeat injections every few months may be necessary to maintain relief.

For patients with cancer-related abdominal pain, Celiac Plexus Blocks have been shown to improve comfort and reduce reliance on medication, significantly enhancing quality of life.If pain persists, alternative treatments such as radiofrequency ablation may be considered for longer-lasting results.

‍Learn more about radiofrequency ablation for pain relief.

‍Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Celiac Plexus Block last?

‍Pain relief can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the underlying condition.

‍Are there any side effects?

‍Side effects are generally mild and may include temporary soreness, low blood pressure, or mild dizziness.

‍How many injections are needed?

‍Some patients experience long-term relief after one injection, while others require multiple treatments for sustained results.

‍Is the procedure covered by insurance?

‍Most insurance plans cover Celiac Plexus Blocks for medically necessary pain management. Our team can help verify your coverage.

‍Why Choose Ascend Pain & Wellness?

‍Ascend Pain & Wellness specializes in interventional pain management techniques designed to provide effective, long-lasting relief for chronic conditions.

• Our team of experienced specialists is highly trained in performing Celiac Plexus Blocks with precision and care.
• We use state-of-the-art imaging technology to ensure accurate and effective treatment.
• Our comprehensive pain management approach includes a range of non-surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.

Schedule Your Consultation TodayIf chronic abdominal pain is affecting your quality of life, a Celiac Plexus Block may be the solution.

Contact Ascend Pain & Wellness today to schedule a consultation.Call us at (708) 550-7005 or visit our website to learn more.‍

Related Resources

• Pain Therapy Treatments
• Abdominal Pain Conditions
• Spinal Pain Treatment Options
• Meet Our Specialists

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