Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB): For Pain, Sleep, and Stress

What is the stellate ganglion?

The stellate ganglion is a small cluster of nerves in the front of the neck, on either side of the voice box. It is part of the sympathetic nervous system - the network that governs the body's "fight or flight" responses, including some aspects of blood flow, alertness and the stress response.

What is a stellate ganglion block?

A stellate ganglion block (SGB) is an image-guided injection of local anesthetic near this nerve cluster. The aim is to temporarily calm sympathetic nerve activity in that region. It is a needle-only procedure performed by our pain medicine team, typically using ultrasound guidance to see the neck structures and direct the needle accurately.

Where SGB may be used

SGB has an established role in certain pain conditions, and interest has broadened to stress- and sleep-related symptoms:

• Certain pain conditions affecting the head, neck, arm or chest region, particularly some types of nerve-related pain.
• Circulation-related symptoms in the arm or hand in selected cases.
• Sleep and stress-related symptoms, where SGB has attracted research attention for its possible calming effect on an overactive stress response.

It is important to be measured here: evidence in some of these newer areas is still developing. SGB is best viewed as one option within a broader plan, and suitability is assessed individually rather than assumed.

How the procedure is done

1. You lie back comfortably with the neck gently supported.

2. The skin is cleaned and numbed.

3. Using ultrasound guidance, the doctor identifies the neck structures and guides a fine needle toward the stellate ganglion.

4. Local anesthetic is delivered near the nerve cluster.

5. The needle is removed and you are monitored for a short period.

The procedure is usually brief and needle-only, with same-day discharge in most cases.

Signs the block has taken effect

A successful block often produces temporary, expected changes on the treated side - such as a drooping eyelid, a slightly smaller pupil, a warm sensation in the hand, or a mild stuffy nose. These are anticipated signs that the block has worked and generally settle as the anesthetic wears off. Your team will explain what to expect so nothing comes as a surprise.

What to expect afterward

Most patients go home the same day. You may be advised to rest, avoid hot drinks for a short time (as swallowing can feel slightly different until the anesthetic settles), and follow specific aftercare. Experiences and results vary between individuals; some people notice benefit after a single block, while others may have a short series as part of a plan.

An honest note on expectations

SGB aims to relieve symptoms and support overall function - it is not a cure, and its effect is not permanent. Response varies from person to person, and in newer applications such as sleep and stress the evidence continues to evolve. Our medical team will discuss what is reasonable to expect for your specific situation.

Next step

To find out which option may suit your pain, our medical team can arrange an assessment. Contact us on LINE (@younifyclinic) or WhatsApp +66 81 556 9696.