If you've been dealing with chronic abdominal pain, you might feel like you've tried everything—heat pads, pain meds, deep breathing (maybe even a few choice words). But have you heard of the Celiac Plexus Block? It might just be the relief you've been searching for! Let's break it down in a fun, easy-to-understand way.

What Is a Celiac Plexus Block? (And Why Should You Care?)

Imagine your body as a high-tech communication system, with nerves acting like Wi-Fi routers, sending pain signals from your abdomen to your brain. Now, what if we could "mute" those signals? That's exactly what a Celiac Plexus Block does! By injecting a local anesthetic near the celiac plexus—a bundle of nerves near the spine—it can help block pain from your internal abdominal and pelvic organs.

How Does It Work? (A Painless Process!)

1. Getting Ready – First, let Dr. Moradian or Dr. Vartanian know if you have allergies (especially to iodine). If you're receiving sedation, skip breakfast that day. Don't worry—there will be snacks later!
2. The Procedure – You'll lie comfortably on your stomach while the doctor uses X-ray guidance to pinpoint the perfect spot for the injection. A tiny bit of numbing medicine goes in first, which may sting for a few seconds (like a quick pinch). After that, the real magic happens: a small needle delivers the anesthetic to the targeted nerves.
3. Recovery & Results – You’ll hang out in the recovery room for a bit, where the medical team will check in to see how you’re feeling. Some people feel immediate relief, while others may notice improvements over the next few days. Bonus: You might experience some warmth or numbness in your legs (don’t worry, it’s temporary!).

FAQ: Everything You Want to Know

How long does the pain relief last? The effects vary! Some people feel relief for a few hours, while others get lucky with days—or even weeks—of reduced pain. If it works well for you, a series of blocks may be recommended to break the pain cycle.

Can I take my meds before the procedure? Yes! Keep taking your usual pain or anti-inflammatory meds. If you're on a blood thinner like Coumadin, be sure to discuss it with your doctor ahead of time.

Can I drive home afterward? Probably not the best idea! While some people feel great after the procedure, others may experience mild weakness or numbness. Bring a friend or family member to play chauffeur for the day.

Why Give the Celiac Plexus Block a Shot? (Pun Intended!)

If chronic abdominal pain is keeping you from doing the things you love, this minimally invasive procedure might be the key to getting back to your best self. No downtime, no major surgery—just targeted relief that could help you reclaim your life.

Ready to explore your options? Call us at (626) 460-1096 to schedule a consultation. Let’s get you feeling better, one nerve block at a time!