Regional Anaesthesia New Zealand
Post - Procedure Information
Information for patients and families after your nerve block
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General Information
How long will the effects of the nerve block last?
The effects of a nerve block can vary from person to person.
Typically, it is normal for the numbness and weakness to last between 6 to 24 hours, and sometimes even longer. During this time, it is normal to experience feelings of heaviness, tingling or weakness. These sensations should gradually resolve as the nerve block wears off.
However, if you notice persisting numbness or weakness lasting longer than 48 hours without any improvement, this should be reported to your healthcare provider.
How do I manage my pain or discomfort once the nerve block wears off?
It is important to start taking prescribed pain medications as instructed by your anaesthetist or your surgical team.
Your anaesthetist may instruct you to start taking your pain medications before your nerve block wears off or when they start to wear off. It is important to do so, as it can take 30-60 minutes for your oral pain medication to take effect. Otherwise, there can be significant pain once the block is fully worn off.
Often a nerve block can wear off in the middle of the night. Therefore it is also important to take your pain medications before going to bed to ensure you have adequate pain relief.
What are some safety precautions or limitations I need to follow?
During the time the block is working, you will not have full use or awareness of the affected region (e.g. your arm or leg). Therefore, the affected region that has received a nerve block should be taken with great care to prevent injuries.
DO NOT bump, injure, or expose the area to extreme temperatures, as you may not be able to feel the pain of temperature sensations.
DO NOT drive, operate dangerous machinery, or engage in strenuous activity while your limb is still numb.
DO keep your arm or leg in a sling/brace while you are still numb. Afterwards, use your sling/ brace as prescribed by your surgeons.
Post-Procedure FAQs
Are there potential side effects or complications I should watch out for?
Potential side effects and complications are rare after a nerve block. Please monitor the site for any signs of infection, which can include redness, swelling, warmth and discharge from the site.
I am still having some pain despite having some numbness, is this normal?
It is normal to experience some pain even after a nerve block, especially as it wears off. It also depends on the type of surgery and nerve block you have had, as the nerve block may not take the pain away completely.
Do I need to cover the injection site?
No. The injection site is small and will heal on its own.
Can I take a shower after a single-shot nerve block?
Yes. As long as the block has worn off and someone can help you to do it safely.
Where can I find more information or help?
An SMS text follow-up is sent to patients who have received a nerve block. If you have any non-urgent concerns, reply yes to the text message, and an anaesthetic doctor will give you a call to follow up.
If you have urgent concerns, please seek medical attention promptly. This includes unexplained breathlessness, signs of infection, or severe pain that is not controlled by your prescribed medications.
Please provide them with the following information.
Patient ID:
Type of nerve block:
Date and time of insertion