Stellate Ganglion Block: The New Miracle Treatment for PTSD
Reduce PTSD symptoms including anxiety and hypervigilance.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) develops in response to extreme stress, serious injury, and/or emotional trauma. The sympathetic nervous system ("fight or flight") has been known to play a part in PTSD. Extra nerves of this system grow after extreme trauma, leading to elevated levels of norepinephrine (an adrenaline-like substance), which activates the amygdala (fear center of the brain). This chain of events results in PTSD symptoms that may persist for years.
Treating PTSD
A Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an injection into the stellate ganglion nerves which are part of the sympathetic nervous system. SGB "reboots" the sympathetic nervous system to its pre-trauma state, similar to a computer reboot. In the brain, norepinephrine levels are rapidly reduced and the extra nerve growth is removed. SGB is not a "cure" for PTSD; however, the symptoms may be controlled for an extended period of time by using this approach.
Real Science
In collaboration with neuroscientists and clinical observations, the SGB procedure has current success rates in the 85% to 90% range. As an example, one soldier with severe PTSD was treated over 10 years ago and is still doing well. Some patients report relief of symptoms in as little as 30 minutes.
Stellate Ganglion Block for PTSD
Who ? - Stellate Ganglion Blocks (SGB) are used for patients who experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). More than 7 million adults throughout the USA suffer from PTSD.
What ? - Stellate Ganglion Block can relieve the symptoms of PTSD in as little as 30 minutes and the results can last for years. SGB is an injection of a numbing medication around the stellate ganglion nerves, which is part of the sympathetic nervous system.
Why ? - SGB “reboots” the sympathetic nervous system to its pre-trauma state, similar to a computer reboot. In the brain, norepinephrine levels are rapidly reduced and the brain begins to heal. SGB is not a cure for PTSD; however, the symptoms may be controlled for years using this approach.
Where ? - The sympathetic nervous system is located in your neck, on the side of your voice box. With x-ray guidance, the doctor will insert a thin needle into your neck and carefully inject a local anesthetic medication.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the procedure take, and when can I go home?
Usually the procedure takes less than 30 minutes, you can go home the same day after being monitored in the recovery room.
When will I feel relief from my symptoms after the procedure?
Some patients report relief of symptoms in as little as 30 minutes and lasts for years.
Can I schedule Physical Therapy or Chiropractic appointments on the procedure day?
Do not schedule Physical Therapy or Chiropractic appointments the same day as the procedure.
What should I tell my physician about blood thinners?
Please advise your physician if you are on a blood thinner.
What medication instructions will I receive before the procedure?
You must receive specific instructions on when to temporarily discontinue the medication.
What are the aspirin guidelines before the injection?
Do not take more than 81 mg of aspirin per day for the 7 days prior to the injection.
What should I wear for the procedure?
Wear short sleeves and loose comfortable clothing such as sweats and a tee shirt for lower back procedures or a thin strapped tank top for neck procedures. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown prior to the procedure.
Who can I ask about concerns regarding the procedure?
Please talk to us if you have any questions or concerns regarding the procedure before your appointment.
Our physicians have extensive training and experience. They are highly proficient in diagnosing and treating painful conditions.
Dr. T. Daniel Dibble
Dr. Greg Crisp
Dr. Nathan Sneddon
Additional Questions?
Call 509.363.3100 and ask about our Stellate Ganglion Block for PTSD today!
FAQ's
Does stellate ganglion block work for anxiety?
While SGB is not specifically intended for the treatment of anxiety, there is some evidence to suggest that it may have a positive impact on anxiety symptoms in certain individuals. By blocking the sympathetic activity in the stellate ganglion, SGB may have an effect on anxiety-related symptoms.
Is the SGB Treatment painful?
How long does the SGB procedure take?
How long does stellate ganglion block for PTSD last?
How successful is SGB treatment?
Patient Testimonials
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The care they give is amazing. The front desk gals are so friendly and helpful assisting with anything I've asked. My PA Nathan is very knowledgeable, personable and has been amazing in assisting me with my pain issue's along with other problems. I would and do recommend them to my friends and family.
SanDee Rhett
February 16, 2024I recently had a visit and hip injection by Dr. Sneddon. He is brilliant. Very nice man who figured out a problem I didn't even know I had. Would recommend to anyone. The team is also very pleasant and professional.
Becky Leighton
February 5, 2024Always helpful and great to see. Once again they came through for me with amazing help! I couldn't leave another 5 star review so I would like to add and just let everyone know how amazing Emily M. and Melissa F. are! The reception are always so friendly and helpful, everyone I've had contact with have always been incredible and positive and make every visit great! I referring to the North side location, as I've never been to the other one, they know how to hire the right people!
Brandon K
January 19, 2024 -
I have been a patient with Spine Team for about the last two years and have to say they are number one! Dr. Emily has been a great listener and really pays special attention to my needs also the other team members Angel and Laicy do a fine job of keeping my appointments on time and checking me in. Life is a journey and not a destination and with the help Spine Team North my quality of life has improved greatly.
ryan kunz
December 19, 2023I've been very impressed with the care Emily and her MA Laicy has given me. From the beginning Emily has done everything that she can to see that I go in the right direction for the pain that I've been in. I'm so grateful for my knee injections. I'm starting to feel like a normal person. I will continue recommending Spine Team.
Kathleen Hartshorn
November 19, 2023Kellie is a knowledgeable and effective therapist for physical pain. She not only diminishes alot of the pain at the visit but she has so much information on any specific part of my body that we are working on at the time that I get educated which helps me understand. She is a positive person. She has an upbeat and outgoing personality. I always look forward to seeing her. She is definitely a bright spot in my day! And...my pain is always better the day she treats me. Win -win.
Jillybean
November 19, 2023 -
I want to comment on my visits to see Emily and Laicy at the north office; they are so professional and caring! I feel so comfortable with talking to them about the issues I may have at the time and know that when I leave my appointment that we have gone over everything with answers. It is a great feeling that when you walk in the receptionist are so kind and easy going and to go to your appointment and you have the most upbeat and professional healthcare; it just makes your day!
Brenda B Kastelein
November 19, 2023I have have been going to Spine Team for 2 1/2 years. I cannot say enough good things about Emily and Laicy. They know me know my case and are so helpful with anything I need. Even though I have moved farther south in Idaho I will still continue to keep my care with them Thank you
Candi Rosco
November 19, 2023Emily and Laicy @ Spokane Spine Team are great!! All the staff are wonderful! I love working with Emily. She is such a caring and compassionate Doctor and is always trying to find ways to get rid of my pain or make it more manageable. And great big THANK YOU to everyone, especially Emily, at Spokane Spine Team, for all that you do for everyone!! 😊❤️
MARGIEANN PENNINGTON
November 19, 2023
