- 7 Southside Drive, Suite 206, Clifton Park, NY 12065
- (518) 672-3050
- 518 240 4310
- 7 Southside Drive, Suite 206, Clifton Park, NY 12065
- (518) 672-3050
Menu
Eventhough the procedure was first described nearly 80 years ago, were only just understanding the therapeutic potential of stellate ganglion blocks. Most of the recent innovation is due to high definition ultrasound. More information emerges daily supporting the efficacy of this procedure to treat PTSD, Anxiety, heart arrythmias, and more.
The stellate ganglion or star shaped nerve cluster readies our body for flight or fight-increasing heart rate, and flooding our body with powerful hormones and neurotransmitters to tackle stress. In some conditions like PTSD, the flight or fight response remains in the ON state even when there is no threat! It seems as though this ganglion is a key biological target for PTSD treatment and resetting the balance between threat assessment.
A Dual Sympathetic Block is a minimally-invasive injection that resets the sympathetic nervous system. The DSB is a more advanced version of a standard stellate ganglion block because it involves two injections into the cervical sympathetic chain at different levels – C4 and C6.
This NEW treatment for anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more recently, symptoms of long COVID, has in some clinical trials, given 70%–80% of patients long-term relief.
Anxiety affects all of us, but for some, can strike suddenly without reason and lead to debilitating symptoms. The impact of generalized anxiety disorder is enormous, affecting patients and their families. Anxiety disorders are on the rise among adults under the age of 50. Common anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. One stellate ganglion block decreased anxiety symptoms by 50% even after all other therapies failed.
If you suffer from anxiety that hasn’t responded to conventional therapy, consider a Stellate ganglion block.
There is emerging evidence that stellate ganglion blocks are useful for more than PTSD! Since the pandemic, many lost their ability to smell or suffer anosmia or suffer Long Covid. A recent study suggests Stellate blocks are effective in restoring smell and treating brain fog. If you suffer from Long Covid, consider this treatment option.
Let our experts guide you through treatment. Unfortunately, many mental health providers aren’t aware of this treatment option. Were also proud that our Libertas physicians are able to provide safe and effective care by using ultrasound guidance (not everyone can by the way!). Click the button below for a consult!. Libertas embraces a team approach to your health and work collaboratively with your providers.
Integrative and trauma based psychotherapy combined with stellate ganglion blocks has shown better outcomes than stellate ganglion block alone.
Ask about our resources to combine a stellate ganglion block with Integrative therapy.
No. The use of stellate ganglion block in treating mood disorders or COVID is still considered to be an “off-label” despite the information in the literature and will not be reimbursed by any insurance carriers. However, the therapy does fall under the umbrella of a medical expense and we are able to accept payment from HSA or FSA account.
$700 per injection for in office, light oral sedation
$850 per injection for IV sedation in a hospital setting
Risks -however rare – include cough, seizure, collapsed lung, numb arms lasting for hours, temporary weakness or numbness from neck down, nerve damage, and bruising at the injection sire.
This is an expected side effect that comes from numbing the stellate ganglion!
Changes that can be expected include:
A droopy eyelid, bloodshot eyes, a stuffy nose, and a skin temperature increase on the injected site.
There may be light discomfort since the doctor needs to press on your neck to locate the injection site. A very small needle is used. The local anesthetic may sting. We can offer you an oral sedative prior to the procedure.
The procedure usually takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete. An IV will started after you sign a consent form. Your vitals are checked pre and post procedure. Skin temperature monitors will be placed on both of your hands. A DSB is usually done with the patient lying down, head turned to the left. After the neck is cleaned, the doctor will use an ultrasound to scan your anatomy.
After the injection, your neck may feel tender or bruised. You may also notice a bit of unbalance. If your arms become numb or heavy, you may use a sling until the feeling passes – usually around 4 to 6 hours. Pain medications may also be prescribed.
After the procedure, you will be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Results can be felt as quickly as 30 minutes following the procedure and can last for years. This immediate reduction in symptoms, along with a long-lasting sense of calm, can also provide a better environment for additional treatment opportunities like psychological counseling.
Libertas Mind staff will call to check on you.
Integration follow up sessions with our Health coaches are important for getting the best outcome. Health coaches are one of the key check in points determining what type of future therapy – medical, interventional or psychosocial is the right option for you.
Learn more about the different treatment options available.
Optimized360 LLC © 2023 All Rights Reserved | Legal Notices