What is a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block?

A superior hypogastric plexus block (SHPB) is a targeted injection treatment for chronic pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic region. This procedure targets the superior hypogastric plexus, a bundle of nerves near the spine that sends pain signals from the pelvic organs to the brain. By numbing these nerves, the SHPB blocks the pain signals, providing relief. If you’re seeking a pain doctor or pain specialist in Phoenix or Scottsdale, this treatment might help.

The superior hypogastric plexus transmits signals from organs like the uterus, ovaries, prostate, bladder, colon, rectum, and other pelvic structures. Numbing this nerve bundle helps relieve pain for patients in Gilbert, Mesa, and nearby areas.

What Conditions Can a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block Treat?

A superior hypogastric plexus block can treat several chronic pelvic pain conditions. Conditions that may benefit from this treatment include:

• Chronic pelvic pain: Persistent discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

• Endometriosis: Tissue growing outside the uterus.

• Prostate issues: Including cancer or inflammation.

• Pelvic injuries: Resulting from surgery or trauma.

• Interstitial cystitis: Bladder pressure and pelvic pain.

• Post-surgical pelvic pain: Pain after procedures like hysterectomy.

• Myofascial pelvic pain: Caused by muscle inflammation or damage.

If you suffer from these conditions and live in Scottsdale or Mesa, a visit to a pain specialist at The Pain Experts of Arizona could offer relief.

Why Might I Need a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block?

If you have chronic pelvic pain that other treatments haven’t addressed, the SHPB could be right for you. For patients in Phoenix and nearby areas, a consultation with a pain doctor can help determine whether this procedure will help. This block is often recommended for pain that doesn’t respond to traditional treatments. It offers a more targeted approach for relief.

The SHPB can also be useful for diagnostic purposes. By numbing the nerves in the pelvic area, your pain doctor can pinpoint the exact source of your pain. This helps guide your next steps in treatment, which may include other pain management options at The Pain Experts of Arizona.

Am I a Candidate for a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block?

Ideal candidates for the SHPB include those who:

• Experience chronic pelvic or abdominal pain.

• Haven’t found relief through medications or physical therapy.

• Have conditions like endometriosis, prostate issues, or interstitial cystitis.

• Struggle with long-term pain after pelvic surgery.

If you live in Scottsdale, Mesa, or the surrounding areas, and face these challenges, a pain clinic like The Pain Experts of Arizona can evaluate your condition and suggest the right treatment options.

How Does a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block Work?

For the SHPB procedure, you will be positioned comfortably, and a local anesthetic will numb the injection site. Your pain doctor will use fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or CT scans to guide the needle to the right spot near your spine. After the needle is in place, an anesthetic and/or steroid will be injected into the nerve bundle, blocking the pain signals.

The procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Patients often feel relief within hours as the anesthetic takes effect. Whether you’re seeing a pain specialist in Mesa or Scottsdale, this treatment can provide targeted pain relief.

What Are the Risks of a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block?

Although the SHPB is generally safe, some risks exist. These include:

• A temporary drop in blood pressure.

• Nerve damage around the injection site.

• Infection or bleeding at the injection site.

• Allergic reactions to the medication.

• Rare damage to nearby organs.

These risks are minimal, but your pain doctor will take extra precautions to ensure your safety. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor, especially if you’re visiting a pain clinic in Phoenix or Scottsdale.

What is Recovery Like After the Procedure?

After your SHPB, you’ll be monitored for 30 to 60 minutes in a recovery room. Most patients can return home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you. Mild soreness at the injection site is common and usually fades in a few days.

Pain relief varies. Some patients feel immediate relief, while others notice gradual improvement. In many cases, relief lasts for weeks, but multiple treatments may be needed for long-term results. Whether you are in Gilbert or Mesa, your pain specialist will help you plan your treatment.

How Long Does the Pain Relief Last?

The length of pain relief varies. Some patients feel immediate relief, while others may take several days to notice improvement. Multiple injections may be needed for lasting pain relief. If you’re seeing a pain doctor in Scottsdale or Phoenix, they will guide you toward the best treatment plan.

Schedule a Consultation with an Arizona Pain Specialist Today

If you’re having pain-related difficulty, The Pain Experts of Arizona can help. Our award-winning pain doctors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa specialize in vertebral augmentation and other advanced pain management treatments to restore function and improve your quality of life.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

Follow Us!