Supraorbital, Supratrochlear, and Auriculotemporal Nerve Block
(Targeted Relief for Forehead and Temple Pain and Headaches)
Overview
Supraorbital, supratrochlear, and auriculotemporal nerve blocks are precise, minimally invasive procedures used to treat facial and headache pain caused by irritation or entrapment of sensory nerves in the upper face. These injections provide temporary or lasting relief for patients experiencing pain in the forehead and temples At Restore Spine and Pain, these nerve blocks are performed with expert anatomical precision and a focus on comfort and safety.
Conditions Treated
- Supraorbital neuralgia
- Supratrochlear neuralgia
- Auriculotemporal neuralgia
- Migraine headaches
- Cluster headaches
- Post-traumatic or post-surgical headache syndromes
- Whiplash-related head pain
- Headache syndromes related to auto accidents or work-related injuries
What are the risks and side effects?
Risks and side effects are minimal, and serious complications are rare. We take every precaution to ensure your safety. Potential risks may include but are not limited to:
- Vasovagal response (fainting or dizziness)
- New or increased pain
- Infection
- Bleeding/bruising
- Permanent skin changes
- Allergic or unexpected drug reaction with minor or major consequences
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the treated area
Ask your provider if you have any concerns. Your physician will review the risks in detail before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed.
What If the Block Wears Off?
If the relief from the nerve block is temporary or partial, additional treatment options may be discussed.
Pre-Procedure Information
How Should I Prepare?
- Driver Required: We ask that you arrange for a driver to take you home after the procedure.
- Food: You may eat a light meal 1–2 hours prior to the procedure. If sedation is planned, please follow the specific sedation protocol provided by our team.
Medications:
- Continue routine medications unless directed otherwise.
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Blood thinners, Aspirin, NSAIDs, and supplements:
- Inform us in advance if you take blood thinners (e.g., Plavix, Eliquis, Xarelto, Coumadin), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), Aspirin, or supplements that increase bleeding risk.
- Certain medications may need to be stopped for a short period of time before the injection.
- Speak with your prescribing provider to ensure it’s safe to temporarily stop these medications.
- Our team will review your medication list and coordinate with your other providers if needed.
Notify us if:
- You have a fever, infection, or recent illness
- You have started antibiotics or had changes to your medications.
What if I am pregnant?
If there is any chance you may be pregnant, please notify our team immediately and postpone the injection until pregnancy is ruled out.
Procedure Information
What to Expect:
1. Preparation:
- You will be positioned on the procedure table
- The skin will be cleaned.
2. Injection Process:
- A needle is guided to targeted nerves and local anesthetic is injected.
Monitoring:
- You will be monitored during the procedure to ensure comfort and safety.
- Most procedures last 10-15 minutes, followed by a brief recovery period on-site.
Post-Procedure Information
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Relief Timeline: You may have immediate response/relief due to local anesthetic use.
- Activity: You may resume light activities the next day; avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. We recommend you return to work the following day
- Soreness: Temporary soreness at the injection site is common.
- Pain tracking: Keep a log of symptoms over the next 1–2 weeks.
If successful, additional injections may be spaced out over time.
Additional Instructions:
- Contact the office for any signs of infection, fever, or worsening pain.
- Attend follow-up as scheduled.
Schedule a Consultation
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