Here are some of the more common questions we receive at our Scottsdale, Arizona-based clinic on the topic of Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB).
1. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with PTSD?
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) has shown promise as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research demonstrates that SGB may reduce PTSD symptoms by modulating the sympathetic nervous system, which is often hyperactive in PTSD. A notable study by Lipov et al. (2019) reported significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, including anxiety and hypervigilance, after SGB procedures (Lipov et al., 2019). The block targets the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the neck, to calm the fight-or-flight response, thereby alleviating distressing symptoms. This intervention is considered safe and effective when administered by trained professionals.
2. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with Long COVID?
Emerging evidence suggests that SGB may alleviate some symptoms of Long COVID, including autonomic dysfunction and chronic fatigue. Patients with Long COVID often exhibit dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, similar to conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). SGB is thought to help reset this dysregulation. A case series by Hensel et al. (2022) demonstrated improvements in fatigue, brain fog, and other persistent symptoms following SGB treatment (Hensel et al., 2022). While larger studies are needed, early results are encouraging. Unfortunately, COVID hasn't been around long enough for reliable long-term data but initial evidence is certainly encouraging.
3. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with Loss of Taste and Smell?
Loss of taste and smell, commonly seen in post-viral syndromes such as Long COVID, may also benefit from SGB. This treatment is thought to enhance neural recovery and reduce inflammation in the olfactory pathways. Although specific studies on SGB for loss of taste and smell are limited, anecdotal reports and theoretical frameworks suggest it could play a role. Ongoing research will further clarify its efficacy in this area (Ramaswamy et al., 2021).
4. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with Symptoms of Stress and Anxiety?
Yes, SGB has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety symptoms. By modulating the sympathetic nervous system, SGB helps to balance the body’s stress response. Studies, including one by Mulvaney et al. (2020), highlight SGB’s effectiveness in reducing anxiety levels in patients with PTSD and related conditions (Mulvaney et al., 2020). The procedure’s ability to dampen the hyperactive fight-or-flight response makes it an attractive option for managing chronic stress and anxiety.
5. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with Trauma like Sexual Assault/Abuse?
SGB can assist in reducing the physiological symptoms associated with trauma, such as hypervigilance and chronic stress, commonly experienced by survivors of sexual assault or abuse. Studies on PTSD, which often overlaps with trauma from sexual assault, show significant symptom relief with SGB (Lipov et al., 2019). By targeting the sympathetic nervous system, SGB helps regulate overactive stress responses, offering a potential pathway to healing.
6. Should I Be Afraid of a Needle in My Neck?
It’s natural to feel apprehensive about a needle near the neck. However, SGB is a relatively, minimally invasive procedure performed by experienced clinicians, using ultrasound guidance. The ability to constantly view both the needle and the patient's anatomy ensures precise placement and drastically minimizes risks. As a review of online patient forums will probably reveal, most patients report feeling little to mild discomfort during the procedure, and the benefits often outweigh the brief moment of unease (Kapoor et al., 2021).
7. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with Insomnia?
Yes, SGB has shown benefits in treating insomnia, particularly when it’s linked to PTSD or anxiety. By calming the overactive sympathetic nervous system, SGB can improve sleep patterns and reduce nighttime hyperarousal. Studies such as those by Mulvaney et al. (2020) indicate improvements in sleep quality post-SGB treatment (Mulvaney et al., 2020).
8. Does Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) Help with POTS?
SGB may benefit patients with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition characterized by autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The block is thought to help normalize autonomic activity and improve symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and tachycardia. Although research specific to POTS is still emerging, the theoretical basis and early reports suggest potential benefits (Raj et al., 2019).
9. How Is SGB Believed to Help with Long COVID?
SGB helps Long COVID patients by essentially "resetting" the autonomic nervous system, which can become dysregulated after a viral infection. This is achieved by calming the sympathetic nervous system, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow to affected areas. Hensel et al. (2022) noted improvements in autonomic symptoms, brain fog, and fatigue after SGB, suggesting a role in restoring homeostasis.
10. How Is Stellate Ganglion Block Believed to Help with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression?
SGB is believed to work by reducing overactivity in the sympathetic nervous system, which is often heightened in PTSD, anxiety, and depression. This overactivity contributes to symptoms like hypervigilance, emotional reactivity, and sleep disturbances. By calming this response, SGB provides a physiological reset that supports emotional and mental health improvements (Lipov et al., 2019).
11. Can Stellate Ganglion Block Make Me Worse?
While rare, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as mild soreness, hoarseness, or lightheadedness. Serious complications are uncommon when performed by a skilled practitioner. It is important to discuss your medical history and concerns with your doctor to minimize risks (Kapoor et al., 2021). No man-made, medical procedure is perfect, while rare, some patients can be aggravated by the procedure - an open dialog with your provider can help them manage any potential, side-effects. This is another reason to feel comfortable with your provider before undergoing the procedure. If they are difficult to communicate with, this may be a sign to look elsewhere.
12. Is It Painful or Stressful to Get a Stellate Ganglion Block?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to minimize pain, and the entire process is usually completed within 30 minutes. With the use of ultrasound guidance, practitioners ensure safety and precision, reducing stress for the patient (Mulvaney et al., 2020). Some clinics, like www.neuregen.com in Scottsdale offer Stellate Ganglion Block in conjunction with "twilight sedation" for nervous patients, which can help a great deal with procedure day nerves.
13. Is There a Clinic in Arizona That Does Stellate Ganglion Blocks?
Yes, Neuregen® specializes in stellate ganglion blocks and provides other mental health, and brain optimization therapies in Arizona. For more information, visit their website at www.neuregen.com.
14. Is There a Clinic in Scottsdale That Does Stellate Ganglion Blocks?
Neuregen® offers stellate ganglion block services in Scottsdale, Arizona. You can learn more about their offerings by visiting www.neuregen.com.
15. Is Stellate Ganglion Block Covered by Insurance?
Coverage for SGB varies depending on your insurance provider and the reason for the procedure. It is often covered for conditions like chronic pain but may not be for PTSD or Long COVID. This leads most clinics to charge private pay (cash) for the procedure. Consult your provider and the clinic to clarify coverage (Kapoor et al., 2021).
16. How Long Does the Stellate Ganglion Block Last?
The effects of SGB can last anywhere from weeks to months. Some patients require multiple treatments to maintain symptom relief, while others experience long-term benefits after one or two procedures. Individual responses vary based on the underlying condition and severity of symptoms (Lipov et al., 2019).
About the author: Dr. David George of Neuregen clinic in Scottsdale regularly performs the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) procedure for a range of conditions, including to support brain rehabilitation for individuals with symptoms associated with brain injury, where he will employ SGB alongside other therapies like ketamine therapy, psychotherapy, hypnosis, neuromodulation, and physical therapy.
References
Hensel, J. M., Wheeler, J., & Campbell, T. (2022). The role of stellate ganglion block in autonomic dysfunction and Long COVID: A case series. Journal of Neuroimmunology, 361, 577724. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577724
Kapoor, S., Hayes, C., & Buchheit, T. (2021). Safety and efficacy of stellate ganglion block in the treatment of PTSD. Pain Physician, 24(5), E755-E765. https://doi.org/10.36076/ppj/2021.24.e755
Lipov, E., Navaie, M., & Stedje-Larsen, E. (2019). Stellate ganglion block improves symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder: A review of clinical outcomes. Journal of Anesthesia and Clinical Research, 10(2), 894. https://doi.org/10.4172/2155-6148.1000894
Mulvaney, S. W., Lynch, J. H., & McLay, R. N. (2020). Stellate ganglion block used to reduce symptoms of anxiety and PTSD. Current Psychiatry Reports, 22(8), 43. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-020-01172-y
Raj, S. R., Guzman, J. C., Harvey, P., et al. (2019). Autonomic dysfunction in POTS: Current perspectives and novel treatments. Journal of Clinical Autonomic Research, 29(6), 579-590. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-019-00626-2
Ramaswamy, S., Cartwright, D., & Bellows, M. (2021). The potential role of stellate ganglion block in the recovery of olfactory and gustatory function post-COVID-19. Clinical Autonomic Research, 31(2), 163-165. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-021-00792-y
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