Nerve Block Injections Englewood NJ

If you are living with nerve pain in Englewood, New Jersey, you are not alone. Many residents throughout Bergen County struggle with chronic pain caused by irritated or inflamed nerves. At Hudson Pain and Spine, located at 25 Rockwood Place in downtown Englewood, board-certified interventional pain specialist Dr. Saurabh Dang, MD, MBA, provides minimally invasive nerve block injections designed to help you reduce pain and improve your quality of life. We understand that living with nerve pain can affect every part of your day—from your commute on busy local roads to enjoying outdoor activities in our beautiful Bergen County parks—and we are here to help you get back to the life you love.

Hudson Pain and Spine
25 Rockwood Place, Suite 335, Englewood, NJ 07631
Phone: (201) 605-9000

Understanding Nerve Block Injections — What Bergen County Residents Should Know

What Are Nerve Block Injections?

Nerve block injections are a specialized treatment for nerve pain that target the nerves causing your discomfort. These injections deliver medication directly to the affected nerve area to block the transmission of pain signals to your brain. Dr. Dang uses a combination of a local anesthetic, which numbs the nerve, and sometimes a corticosteroid, which reduces inflammation around the nerve. This combination targets both the immediate pain signals and the underlying inflammation that fuels chronic nerve pain.

The goal of nerve block injections is not only to provide quick relief but also to improve your ability to engage in physical therapy or other treatments by reducing pain to a manageable level. Many patients notice relief within minutes to hours after the injection. This relief can last from several days to several months, depending on the cause and severity of the nerve irritation. When other treatment options like medications or physical therapy have not been enough, nerve block injections offer an effective, minimally invasive next step.

Because the injections are targeted, they tend to have fewer side effects compared to systemic medications like opioids or oral steroids. The precision with which Dr. Dang performs these injections—often using imaging guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy—helps maximize benefits while minimizing risks.

Causes of Nerve Pain in Bergen County

Nerve pain can arise from many different causes, and understanding these can help you recognize when to seek treatment. Common causes include:

Injury or trauma: Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can damage nerves or surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. Bergen County’s active lifestyle—whether hiking at Flat Rock Brook, jogging at Overpeck County Park, or playing soccer in local leagues—can sometimes result in overuse injuries or sudden trauma affecting nerves.
Surgical complications: Many patients experience nerve pain after surgeries, especially back, neck, or joint operations. Scar tissue or nerve irritation can cause persistent pain long after the surgery itself has healed.
Chronic conditions: Diseases like arthritis, diabetes, or spinal stenosis can cause progressive nerve damage or inflammation. For example, osteoarthritis in the spine or joints can pinch nerves, leading to shooting pain or numbness.
Lifestyle factors: Bergen County commuters spending long hours stuck in traffic along I-95 or Route 4, or desk workers in Englewood’s busy business district, may develop nerve pain from poor posture or repetitive strain. Weather also plays a role—cold, damp winters typical to our region can worsen nerve and joint pain, especially when combined with activities like snow shoveling.
Nerve entrapment syndromes: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or thoracic outlet syndrome occur when nerves are compressed by muscles, ligaments, or bones, leading to pain and dysfunction.
Infections and systemic diseases: In some cases, infections or autoimmune diseases can cause nerve inflammation.

Understanding the root cause of your nerve pain helps Dr. Dang tailor treatment specifically to your needs, improving outcomes and long-term relief.

Symptoms of Nerve Pain

Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, often feels different than typical muscle or joint pain. Recognizing these symptoms can help you describe your pain accurately during your consultation. Common symptoms include:

Burning or tingling sensations: Many patients describe the pain as a constant burning or pins-and-needles feeling, often in the arms, legs, hands, or feet.
Sharp, stabbing, or shooting pains: Sudden, intense bursts of pain may radiate along the path of a nerve, such as sciatica shooting down the back of the leg.
Numbness or weakness: Nerve damage can cause loss of sensation or muscle weakness in the affected area, which might make walking or gripping objects difficult.
Hypersensitivity: Even light touch or temperature changes can trigger pain, a symptom common in conditions like complex regional pain syndrome.
Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions: Sitting for extended periods during a Bergen County commute, bending over to shovel snow, or repetitive motions at work can exacerbate nerve pain.

The impact of these symptoms can be significant. Pain may interfere with daily activities like driving on local highways, playing with grandchildren, or participating in favorite outdoor hobbies. It can also disturb sleep, leading to fatigue and reduced mental focus.

Risk Factors for Nerve Pain

Certain factors make you more likely to develop nerve pain. If you live in Bergen County, several of these may apply:

Age: Nerve function naturally declines with age. Many of our patients are over 40 and find that degenerative changes in their spine or joints contribute to nerve irritation.
Chronic diseases: Conditions like diabetes raise your risk of peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage causing pain and numbness in the hands and feet.
Occupational hazards: Jobs requiring repetitive motions, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting—common in Bergen County’s mix of office workers, healthcare professionals, and manual laborers—can increase nerve irritation risk.
Previous injuries or surgeries: Scar tissue or altered biomechanics can trap or irritate nerves.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise can impair nerve health.
Environmental factors: Bergen County’s cold winters and humid summers can worsen symptoms. Snow shoveling is a seasonal activity that often triggers flare-ups due to cold exposure and sudden physical strain.

Knowing your risk factors can motivate you to seek early treatment before nerve pain becomes chronic or disabling.

How Dr. Dang Treats Nerve Block Injections in Englewood

Diagnostic Process

Before recommending nerve block injections, Dr. Dang ensures a thorough diagnostic workup. This begins with an in-depth medical history review and physical exam focused on your pain’s location, quality, and triggers. He may ask about your Bergen County lifestyle, work routines, and recent activities that could contribute to your symptoms.

Imaging studies are often part of the evaluation. These can include:

X-rays: To assess bone alignment and arthritis.
MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including nerves, discs, and muscles.
CT scans: Useful for evaluating bony structures and complex cases.
Electrodiagnostic tests: Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) measure nerve function to identify damaged nerves.

In some cases, diagnostic nerve blocks are used. These involve injecting a small amount of anesthetic near a suspected nerve to see if pain improves temporarily. This test helps confirm the exact nerve causing your pain, guiding precise treatment.

This careful approach ensures that nerve block injections are recommended only when appropriate, improving safety and effectiveness.

Conservative Treatments

At Hudson Pain and Spine, Dr. Dang believes in starting with conservative treatments whenever possible. These approaches aim to reduce pain and improve function without injections or surgery. They include:

Physical therapy: Tailored exercises improve flexibility, strength, and posture. Therapists also teach ergonomic practices to reduce nerve irritation during daily activities like desk work or driving.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or neuropathic pain medications may help control symptoms.
Lifestyle modifications: Adjusting workstations, taking frequent breaks, using supportive footwear, and adopting low-impact exercise routines can ease nerve stress.
Heat and cold therapy: Locally applied heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow, while cold packs reduce inflammation and numb pain.

Many patients see significant improvement with these methods, especially when combined with lifestyle changes appropriate for Bergen County’s climate and activity patterns. However, when pain persists or worsens, nerve block injections can provide targeted relief.

Minimally Invasive Nerve Block Injections

When nerve block injections are recommended, Dr. Dang performs them using the latest imaging guidance techniques such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. This technology allows him to visualize nerves and surrounding anatomy in real-time, ensuring the medication is delivered precisely where it is needed. This precision improves effectiveness and reduces risks.

The injection usually contains:

Local anesthetic: Numbs the nerve immediately, providing quick pain relief that can last for hours.
Steroid (corticosteroid): Reduces inflammation around the nerve, which can provide longer-lasting relief lasting days to months.

The injection is typically done in an outpatient setting. Before the injection, the skin is cleaned and numbed with a small needle to minimize discomfort. Most patients feel only mild pressure during the injection itself. The entire appointment usually takes less than 30 minutes.

After the injection:

You may notice immediate pain relief from the anesthetic, although this is temporary.
The steroid’s effects develop over several days as inflammation decreases.
Some soreness or bruising at the injection site is normal and usually resolves quickly.
You can generally resume normal activities the same day but may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours.

If the injection is successful, it can reduce pain enough to allow you to participate more fully in physical therapy or daily activities. Depending on your response, Dr. Dang may recommend a series of injections spaced weeks apart for optimal benefit.

Follow-up and Additional Treatments

Pain relief from nerve block injections varies among patients. Some experience lasting relief for several months, while others may need repeat injections to maintain comfort. Dr. Dang closely monitors your progress and adjusts your treatment plan accordingly.

If nerve block injections alone are insufficient, other interventional treatments may be considered, such as:

Radiofrequency ablation: Using heat to disrupt nerve pain signals for longer-term relief.
Spinal cord stimulation: Implanting a device that blocks pain signals before they reach the brain.
Physical therapy intensification: Combining injections with customized rehab to restore function.

Dr. Dang’s goal is to create a comprehensive, personalized approach that fits your lifestyle in Bergen County and supports your long-term pain management.

Why Bergen County Patients Choose Hudson Pain and Spine

At Hudson Pain and Spine, you receive expert care from Dr. Saurabh Dang, MD, MBA, a double board-certified physician in Pain Medicine and Anesthesiology. His fellowship training in interventional pain management means you benefit from the latest, minimally invasive treatments tailored to your needs.

Our Englewood location offers free on-site parking and easy access from major roadways like I-95 and Route 4, making it convenient for patients traveling from throughout Bergen County. Whether you live in Englewood, Teaneck, or Bergenfield, you can reach our office quickly without hassle.

We accept many insurance plans, including Workers’ Compensation and Auto PIP, which helps make treatment affordable and accessible. Our friendly staff assists you with insurance verification and scheduling to reduce stress.

Beyond clinical care, we understand the Bergen County lifestyle. We know how important it is for you to get back to commuting comfortably, enjoying local parks and trails, and participating in seasonal activities like skiing in nearby areas or gardening in your backyard. Our community-focused approach means you receive compassionate, individualized care in a warm, welcoming environment.

Patient Experiences at Our Englewood Office

Representative patient scenarios based on typical treatment experiences. Individual results may vary.

Patient from Teaneck, Age 52:
She is a middle-aged woman who commutes daily to New York City, spending long hours sitting at a desk. Over time, she developed chronic neck pain, worsened by poor posture during her commute on Route 4 and the cold, damp winters typical of Englewood. The pain caused stiffness and headaches, making it difficult to focus at work or enjoy evenings with her family. After trying physical therapy and medications without sufficient relief, Dr. Dang recommended targeted cervical nerve block injections. Using fluoroscopy guidance, he precisely placed the injection near the affected cervical nerves. Within days, she noticed significant reduction in pain and improved neck mobility. Over several weeks, she was able to return to her usual activities with less discomfort, and the pain relief lasted long enough for her to continue physical therapy successfully.

Patient from Englewood Cliffs, Age 68:
A retired man who enjoys hiking at Flat Rock Brook developed sharp, shooting pain radiating down his leg, a classic sign of sciatica caused by lumbar nerve irritation. The pain limited his ability to enjoy daily walks and affected his sleep. Given his active lifestyle, he wanted to avoid surgery. Dr. Dang performed lumbar nerve block injections combined with a physical therapy program focused on strengthening his core and improving flexibility. The injections reduced inflammation and provided significant pain relief, allowing him to gradually increase his physical activity. After several months, he was back to hiking regularly with much less discomfort, improving both his physical and mental well-being.

Patient from Bergenfield, Age 45:
This professional had undergone back surgery several years earlier but continued to experience persistent nerve pain in his lower back and leg. The pain worsened during the winter months after shoveling snow—a common challenge in Bergen County’s cold climate. Dr. Dang performed diagnostic nerve blocks that confirmed the source of his pain was postsurgical nerve irritation. He followed up with steroid injections to reduce inflammation. The patient reported decreased pain intensity and improved function. He was able to return to work without frequent breaks and resumed weekend activities with friends and family, highlighting how targeted treatment improved his quality of life despite previous surgery.

These stories reflect the broad range of Bergen County residents we serve and how nerve block injections can make a meaningful difference.

Convenient Access for Bergen County Residents

We understand how busy life can be in Bergen County. Hudson Pain and Spine’s Englewood office is easily reachable from many nearby towns. Whether you are commuting from Teaneck or managing family life in Fort Lee, we strive to make your visit simple and stress-free.

Location	Approximate Drive Time to Englewood Office
Englewood Cliffs	5 minutes
Teaneck	7 minutes
Tenafly	8 minutes
Leonia	8 minutes
Bergenfield	9 minutes
Fort Lee	11 minutes
Hackensack	13 minutes

Our office offers free on-site parking, a valuable convenience in downtown Englewood. For those who rely on public transportation, NJ Transit bus routes 166, 171, 175, 178, and 186 provide easy access. Our location near Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, a well-known local landmark, makes it simple to find us.

We also understand that Bergen County’s variable weather can impact your travel plans. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options and friendly reminders to help you keep your appointments even during snowstorms or heavy rain.

Insurance and Payment for Nerve Block Pain Treatment NJ

Hudson Pain and Spine accepts most major insurance carriers, including:

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ
Aetna
UnitedHealthcare
Cigna
AmeriHealth NJ
Medicare
NJ Medicaid / Horizon NJ Health

We also accept NJ Workers’ Compensation and Auto Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims. Our knowledgeable staff is happy to assist you in verifying your insurance coverage and explaining payment options, so you can focus on your health without financial stress.

Please note that coverage varies by plan. We recommend confirming your benefits with both your insurance provider and our office before your appointment to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nerve Block Injections in Englewood, NJ

What conditions can nerve block injections treat?
Nerve block injections can help manage a variety of nerve-related pain conditions common in Bergen County and beyond. These include chronic back or neck pain caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or arthritis; sciatica, which causes leg pain from lumbar nerve irritation; postsurgical nerve pain; nerve entrapment syndromes such as carpal tunnel syndrome; migraines and cluster headaches; and complex regional pain syndrome—a difficult-to-treat neuropathic pain condition. Dr. Dang carefully evaluates your specific diagnosis and tailors the injection treatment accordingly to maximize relief.

How long does the pain relief from nerve block injections last?
The duration of pain relief varies widely depending on your condition, the severity of nerve inflammation, and individual response. Some patients experience a few days to weeks of relief, while others can enjoy several months of decreased pain. The steroid component helps reduce inflammation, which can provide longer-lasting benefits than the anesthetic alone. For chronic conditions, a series of injections spaced over weeks or months may be recommended to sustain pain control. Dr. Dang will discuss realistic expectations based on your diagnosis and monitor your progress closely.

Are nerve block injections safe?
Yes. Nerve block injections are considered a safe treatment when performed by an experienced, board-certified specialist like Dr. Dang. Using imaging guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy ensures precise needle placement, minimizing the risk of injury to surrounding tissues. The medications used—local anesthetics and corticosteroids—are carefully selected and administered in controlled doses. Potential side effects like temporary soreness, minor bruising, or very rarely infection are minimized by sterile technique and proper patient selection. Dr. Dang will review your medical history and discuss any concerns before treatment.

Will I need to take time off work after nerve block injections?
Most patients are able to return to their usual activities the same day or within 24 hours after nerve block injections. If your job involves physical labor, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing, Dr. Dang may advise a brief rest period of one to two days to allow the injection site to heal and to reduce discomfort. For desk jobs typical in Bergen County’s business community, many patients return to work immediately with improved comfort. We encourage you to discuss your job demands with Dr. Dang so he can provide personalized guidance.

Can nerve block injections help with pain caused by cold weather or snow shoveling?
Absolutely. Cold, damp weather common in Englewood winters can worsen nerve inflammation and pain by causing muscles to tighten and reducing circulation. Physical strain from snow shoveling can also irritate already sensitive nerves. Nerve block injections reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing relief even during harsh weather conditions. Patients often report improved ability to manage seasonal tasks and outdoor activities after treatment.

Do I need a referral to schedule a consultation?
Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan. Some insurers require a referral from your primary care physician, while others allow you to see a pain specialist directly. Our office staff will help you understand your plan’s rules and assist with any necessary paperwork to facilitate scheduling. If you do not have insurance, we also offer self-pay options and can discuss payment plans.

Schedule Your Consultation

If nerve pain is limiting your comfort or daily activities, don’t wait to find relief. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Saurabh Dang, MD, MBA, at Hudson Pain and Spine today. We are committed to helping Bergen County residents regain their quality of life through expert, compassionate care.