Diagnostic Medial Branch Block (MBB)

What is a Diagnostic Medial Branch Block (MBB)?

A diagnostic medial branch block (MBB) is an injection of a local anesthetic (numbing medication) to temporarily block pain information from a joint in the spine.

What are the benefits of a Diagnostic Medial Branch Block?

A medial branch block is a diagnostic (test) procedure used to identify and relieve pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. When facet joints degenerate or are inflamed, they can send the sensation of pain information via the medial branch nerves. Using medial branch blocks is one way to identify which, if any, of the facet joints is causing neck, mid, or low back pain.

How does a Diagnostic Medial Branch Block work?

Anesthetic (numbing medication) medicine is placed on a small sensory nerve to block the pain signals from the suspected painful joint (facet joint).

How to prepare for a Diagnostic Medial Branch Block?

The first step to determine your eligibility to receive a medial branch block is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.

-Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, Plavix, Eliquis, warfarin):
You will NOT need to stop them before the procedure
– Medical Clearance (if needed)
If you have heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or infections, your provider may require clearance from your primary doctor or specialist.

What to expect after the procedure?

Medial branch blocks are usually performed in under 20 minutes with the patient’s ability to go home the same day after a short recovery period.

When blocking the facet joints with numbing medication, the expectation is to get temporary relief from pain that only lasts for a day or so. Once this injection is performed, we want you to engae in physical activity to test if it was helpful. This confirms that the joint is the source of pain.

If successful, then a second (confirmation) block is typically performed. If we are able to identify on two separate occasions the specific source of your pain, then a procedure called radiofrequency ablation is likely indicated to provide longer term relief.