Imaging Guided Nerve Blocks at Radiant Radiology, Gold Coast & Logan
Radiant Radiology provides imaging guided nerve blocks, targeted injections placed around a specific nerve using real time CT or ultrasound guidance. Medication, usually a local anaesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid, is delivered precisely to the area around the nerve identified on your referral.
Nerve blocks serve two purposes. They help your referring doctor identify which nerve is contributing to your symptoms, and they deliver medication to that specific area. Your doctor determines which applies in your case.
Nerve blocks are available for patients across the Gold Coast and Logan region, with clinics in Pimpama, Ormeau, Yarrabilba, and Elanora.
Have a referral? Book your procedure at your nearest Radiant Radiology clinic.
How a Nerve Block Helps Identify the Source of Pain
Pain is often felt in a different place from where it originates, which can make the source difficult to determine from imaging and examination alone.
By placing local anaesthetic precisely around one specific nerve, a nerve block temporarily interrupts signals from that nerve. How your symptoms respond gives your referring doctor useful information about whether that nerve is involved.
Because of this, your doctor may ask you to record your symptoms in the hours following the procedure. If you have been given instructions to do so, please follow them carefully, as this information forms part of the assessment.
Types of Nerve Blocks We Provide
Your referring doctor will specify the nerve and the level to be treated. Common procedures include:
Targeted injections around a specific nerve root as it exits the spine, used for pain radiating into the arm or leg. See our Lumbar Injections and Cervical Injections pages for procedures relating to the lower back and neck.
Injections around the small nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine, used to assess whether these joints are contributing to back or neck pain.
Injections around nerves outside the spine, performed under ultrasound guidance where the nerve can be clearly visualised.
How We Perform Your Nerve Block
Your procedure is performed by an experienced radiologist using CT or ultrasound guidance, depending on the nerve being targeted and what your referral specifies.
You will be positioned to give access to the treatment area, and imaging is used to plan the approach. The skin is cleaned with antiseptic and numbed with local anaesthetic.
A fine needle is then guided to the target under imaging visualisation. Once correct needle position is confirmed, the medication is delivered.
The procedure is minimally invasive and typically completed within a short appointment. You may be monitored briefly afterwards before returning home.
Preparing for Your Nerve Block
Our team will confirm your specific instructions when you book. As a general guide:
Let us know when booking if you take any blood thinning medication, as your referring doctor may need to provide advice before your procedure.
Arrange a driver, as driving is not recommended for the remainder of the day after most nerve block procedures.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area, as you may be asked to wear a gown.
Bring your referral and any relevant previous imaging.
If your doctor has asked you to record your symptoms afterwards, bring any form or instructions they have given you.
After Your Procedure
Temporary numbness, altered sensation, or weakness in the area supplied by the nerve is expected while the local anaesthetic is working, and this settles as it wears off. Your radiologist will explain what to expect before you leave.
Some soreness at the injection site over the following day or two is common. As with any injection, there is a small risk of bleeding, bruising, or infection at the injection site.
Your referring doctor will discuss your results, your symptom record if one was requested, and any next steps with you.
Why Choose Radiant Radiology
- CT and ultrasound guidance for accurate needle placement
- Experienced radiologists performing specialised procedures
- Minimally invasive techniques focused on patient comfort
- Detailed communication with your referring doctor
Radiant Radiology performs imaging guided nerve blocks with precision and care for patients across the Gold Coast and Logan. This procedure forms part of our Interventional Procedures. See also our CT Guided Injections and Ultrasound Guided Injections pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a nerve block?
A nerve block is a targeted injection of medication, usually local anaesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid, placed around a specific nerve under CT or ultrasound guidance. It is used to help identify whether that nerve is contributing to your symptoms and to deliver medication to that area.
Do I need a referral for a nerve block?
Yes, a referral from your GP or specialist is required. Your referral will specify the nerve and the level to be treated.
Does a nerve block hurt?
Local anaesthetic is used to numb the skin and deeper tissue, so most patients experience only brief discomfort. Your radiologist will explain each step before the procedure begins.
Why has my doctor asked me to record my symptoms afterwards?
Because how your symptoms respond after the nerve is blocked helps your doctor determine whether that nerve is involved. If you have been given instructions to record your symptoms, following them carefully makes the assessment more useful.
Will I be numb afterwards?
Temporary numbness, altered sensation, or weakness in the area supplied by the nerve is expected while the local anaesthetic is working. This settles as it wears off. Your radiologist will explain what to expect for your particular procedure.
Can I drive home?
No, we recommend arranging a driver. Driving is not advised for the remainder of the day after most nerve block procedures because of temporary numbness or weakness.
How long does the appointment take?
Most nerve block procedures are completed within a short appointment, including planning imaging, the injection, and a brief observation period. Your clinic will confirm the expected duration when you book.
Imaging Guided Nerve Blocks Available Locations
These procedures are performed at our clinics with the relevant imaging facilities. Contact your nearest clinic to confirm availability and book:
Ready to book? Appointments are available with a valid referral.