Stellate Ganglion Block
A targeted injection that aims to calm sympathetic nerve activity in the neck, which may help reduce arm, hand, face, or upper body sympathetic pain in selected cases.
T2/T3 Sympathetic Block
A precise block targeting the upper thoracic sympathetic chain, which may help reduce sympathetic pain affecting the upper limb or chest wall in selected cases.
Lumbar Sympathetic Block
An image guided injection that targets the lumbar sympathetic chain, which may help reduce sympathetic pain in the leg or foot and improve circulation related symptoms.
Lumbar Sympathectomy
A specialist procedure that targets the lumbar sympathetic nerves to reduce persistent sympathetic pain or severe circulation related symptoms when other options have not helped.
Why Specialist Treatment for Sympathetic Pain Matters
Sympathetic pain involves abnormal activity in the sympathetic nervous system, the part of the nervous system that influences blood flow, sweating, temperature regulation, and pain signalling. When this system becomes overactive, pain may persist even after the original injury has healed. Symptoms can spread, become disproportionate, and significantly limit movement, work, and sleep.
Because sympathetic pain can overlap with other causes of chronic pain, accurate diagnosis is essential. Consultant led assessment helps identify whether symptoms fit a sympathetic pain pattern and whether targeted blocks are likely to help. This approach avoids trial and error and focuses care on the most relevant pain pathway.
Consultant Led Assessment and Diagnosis
Your care begins with a detailed consultation that focuses on both pain and autonomic symptoms. This may include:
• Review of how symptoms started, including injury, surgery, or nerve irritation
• Assessment of pain quality such as burning, stabbing, or severe sensitivity to touch
• Screening for temperature, colour, sweating, or swelling changes
• Examination of movement, function, and nerve related signs
• Review of previous imaging, nerve tests, or specialist reports
• Discussion of how pain affects sleep, mobility, and quality of life
Where appropriate, diagnostic sympathetic blocks may be recommended to confirm whether the sympathetic chain is contributing to pain. A meaningful response to a block can help guide the next step and inform longer term planning.
Targeted, Evidence Based Interventions
Sympathetic pain often responds best to a combination of approaches. Depending on your symptoms and diagnosis, your consultant may recommend:
• Stellate ganglion block for upper limb, facial, or upper body symptoms
• T2/T3 sympathetic blocks when upper thoracic sympathetic pathways are suspected
• Lumbar sympathetic blocks for leg or foot symptoms and circulation related changes
• Lumbar sympathectomy in selected cases when other treatments have not provided adequate relief
• Medication review to support nerve sensitivity management
• Rehabilitation planning to maintain movement and reduce guarding
• Referral coordination where multidisciplinary input is needed
Many sympathetic procedures are performed using imaging guidance to support accuracy and safety, and treatment selection is based on symptom pattern, response to previous care, and overall health.
Focused on Long Term Relief and Function
The goal is not only to reduce pain but also to improve function and support recovery. Treatment plans may include:
• A stepped approach using diagnostic blocks before longer lasting options
• Guidance on pacing, movement, and gradual return to activity
• Coordination with physiotherapy when movement has become limited
• Strategies to reduce flare ups and maintain progress over time
• Follow up review to assess response and adjust the plan
By combining targeted sympathetic interventions with structured rehabilitation and ongoing review, we aim to help you regain confidence in movement and daily life.
Book a consultation to discuss personalised options for sympathetic pain.