Pain-relief blocks in Wrocław
A pain-relief block is a precise injection of medication at the source of pain - into a joint, around a nerve or next to the spine. It takes a few to a dozen or so minutes, and relief is usually felt within minutes. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław blocks are performed by orthopaedic surgeon Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD, after assessment.
A pain-relief block is a precise injection of medication at the source of pain - into a joint, around a nerve or next to the spine. It takes a few to a dozen or so minutes, and relief is usually felt within minutes. At Luna Clinic in Wrocław blocks are performed by orthopaedic surgeon Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD, after assessment.
What does the procedure involve?
Pain-relief blocks are a procedure involving the precise administration of a medication - most often an anaesthetic with an anti-inflammatory drug - into the area affected by pain: into a joint, around a nerve or at an attachment point. They allow the pain to be interrupted quickly and rehabilitation to begin. It is an effective, minimally invasive method of treating acute and chronic pain.
The most common indications for the procedure:
Preparation for the procedure:
The procedure does not require special preparation.
We recommend: bringing your medical documentation (e.g. MRI, X-ray, ultrasound results),
informing the doctor about all medications taken and allergies,
on the day of the procedure you should come in clothing that allows easy access to the treated area.
In some cases the doctor may order a prior test of the blood sugar level or clotting parameters.
Course of the procedure
The procedure takes a few to a dozen minutes and consists in the precise injection of the medication at the source of the pain.
Depending on the indications, this may be an intra-articular, perineural or paravertebral block.
The patient may feel momentary pressure or burning at the injection site. After a few minutes a gradual reduction in pain occurs.
Recovery and post-procedure recommendations:
Rest is recommended on the day of the block.
Intense physical activity should be avoided for 1-2 days.
The injection site can be rinsed with water after a few hours - without the need for a dressing.
In rare cases, short-term weakening of sensation or redness of the skin at the injection site may occur.
The effect of the block may be immediate or may build up over a few days. The duration of action depends on the medication used - usually from a few days to a few weeks.
Temporary pain or burning at the injection site
Haematoma or bruise
Rarely: infection, allergic reaction, nerve damage (with deep blocks - minimal risk)
With steroid blocks - a possible rise in blood sugar, water retention or hot flushes
At Luna Clinic the procedures are performed by an experienced orthopaedist - Dr Krzysztof Ciechan - exclusively using the highest-quality medications.
Frequently asked questions
What is a pain-relief block?
It is the targeted administration of an anaesthetic, often with an anti-inflammatory drug, into the area of the source of pain - a joint, a tendon sheath, an attachment or the area of a nerve. It breaks the vicious circle of pain and enables rehabilitation.
In which conditions are blocks used?
Among others, in degenerative joint pain, sciatica and brachialgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, inflammation of tendons and bursae, and neuralgias. The indication is determined by the orthopaedist.
How quickly does a pain-relief block work?
The anaesthetic component works within minutes, while the anti-inflammatory one develops its action over 24-72 hours. Relief lasts from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the condition.
Does a block hurt?
The injection is brief and comparable to an ordinary injection; the skin can be anaesthetised beforehand. Precise administration, often under ultrasound guidance, minimises discomfort.
Does the block treat the cause of the pain?
The block interrupts the pain and inflammation, creating a therapeutic window for rehabilitation, which acts on the cause. We treat it as an element of a comprehensive treatment plan, not a standalone therapy.
How often can blocks be repeated?
Steroid blocks are usually performed no more often than every 6-12 weeks and a maximum of a few times a year in one area. The doctor sets the schedule to protect the tissues.
How to prepare for a block?
It does not require special preparation - inform the doctor about blood-thinning medications, allergies and diabetes. After the procedure, plan to spare the area for 1-2 days.
What to avoid after a pain-relief block?
For 24-48 hours, intense exertion and overloading of the treated area; keep the injection site clean and dry. A temporary intensification of complaints on the first day is possible and normal.
Are blocks safe?
Yes - performed by an experienced orthopaedist, with aseptic technique and under ultrasound guidance, they have a low risk. We discuss possible side effects during qualification.
What are the contraindications to a block?
Active infection (general or at the injection site), drug allergy, uncontrolled diabetes with steroids, clotting disorders; pregnancy requires an individual assessment.
Can I drive a car after a block?
After peripheral blocks usually yes, although on the first day it is better to arrange transport - the area may be temporarily weakened or numb. The doctor will advise depending on the injection site.
How much does a pain-relief block cost in Wrocław?
Pain-relief blocks start at PLN 450, and spinal blocks at PLN 1,500, in our price list.
Indications - is this procedure for you?
The most common reasons patients come for the “Pain-relief blocks” procedure:
- Pain limiting daily activity, work or sleep.
- Mobility limitation, instability or “catching” in the joint.
- Insufficient improvement after conservative treatment and rehabilitation.
Contraindications
Effects - when and for how long?
Effect: relief from a few days to a few months; blocks can be repeated. Durability: depends on the product and the condition.
Safety and possible complications
After a nerve block there may be temporary pain or bruising at the needle site and brief numbness in the area; rarely - infection or a reaction to the medicine.
We limit the risk through medical qualification, aseptic technique and precise injection. You have the right to know every aspect of the procedure - at the consultation we will discuss them honestly and without haste.
Krzysztof Ciechan, MD, PhD
A specialist in orthopaedics and traumatology of the locomotor system with over 13 years of experience in trauma and orthopaedic surgery. A doctor of medical sciences, a graduate of the Wrocław Medical Academy; he also gained practice in hospitals in the United Kingdom, combining modern treatment techniques with an individual approach to the patient.
Take the first step
Book a consultation - an honest conversation about expectations, possibilities and the treatment plan.
Pain-relief blocks: price and consultation
Pain-relief blocks cost from PLN 450 at Luna Clinic, and spinal blocks from PLN 1,500. The price depends on the medication, the site and whether ultrasound guidance is used. A block relieves pain but does not always remove its cause - so we start with an orthopaedic consultation.
How to book
Call +48 666 850 666 (Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00) or send the consultation form. All prices: Luna Clinic price list.
Where we are
Luna Clinic, ul. Władysława Syrokomli 46, 51-141 Wrocław, Poland - in the Karłowice area of the Psie Pole district. There is parking for patients by the clinic. Directions and map