The Role of Diagnostic Nerve Blocks in the Diagnosis of Symptomatic Neuroma

Diagnostic nerve blocks are a valuable tool in the diagnosis of nerve injury and neuroma. Practitioners can utilize nerve blocks to confirm a working diagnosis, localize the level of nerve injury/neuroma, and plan surgical management if indicated. Ultrasound-guided injections can be a helpful tool to identify the anatomic location of the nerve(s) to be investigated and improve the exact location of the injection(s). A positive response to nerve block is a good prognostic indicator for surgical management, and patients gain confidence that the source of pain has been identified. The emotional relief that follows is extremely rewarding.