Stellate Ganglion Block: A Promising Treatment for Long COVID-19 Syndrome

Long COVID-19 Syndrome has emerged as a persistent and challenging condition affecting millions worldwide. Individuals who have overcome an initial COVID-19 infection may find themselves facing ongoing symptoms like brain fog, chronic fatigue, and mental health challenges, collectively known as Long COVID-19 Syndrome. Research and clinical trials are increasingly showing that the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), a procedure traditionally used to address chronic pain and certain mental health conditions, holds promise as a treatment for these lingering symptoms. Read more about these findings in the chart study published in the Autonomic Neuroscience Journal.

If you’re interested in SGB as a potential treatment for Long COVID-19 Syndrome, Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers has seven offices across the DMV, and Orlando, FL. Our team of Board-Certified Physicians are committed to compassionate, advanced mental healthcare, and are at the forefront of innovative therapies to address the complexities of Long COVID-19.

What is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a procedure involving the injection of a local anesthetic near the stellate ganglion—a bundle of nerves in the neck that regulates the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response. By blocking these nerves temporarily, SGB can help calm an overactive sympathetic system, potentially reducing symptoms of Long COVID-19 that may be connected to nervous system dysfunction.

The SGB procedure is minimally invasive, quick (typically under 30 minutes), and has shown to be helpful in managing symptoms associated with conditions like PTSD and chronic pain. For Long COVID-19, which may involve nervous system disruption and lingering inflammation, the benefits of SGB could offer meaningful relief.

The Science Behind SGB and Long COVID-19

One notable study on SGB for Long COVID-19, published in the Pain Management Fellowship Program, evaluated 41 patients undergoing the procedure. This retrospective cohort study found that 86% of the patients experienced improvements in symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, and respiratory issues. These findings align with increasing evidence pointing to the sympathetic nervous system’s role in the long-term symptoms of COVID-19. 

As the pandemic has evolved, so has our understanding of how COVID-19 affects the body, particularly the autonomic nervous system, which regulates vital functions like heart rate and digestion. When this system becomes overactive or unbalanced, as it often does in Long COVID-19 cases, patients may experience dysautonomia—a condition affecting automatic bodily functions and sometimes characterized by Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). By targeting the stellate ganglion, SGB aims to reset this imbalance, potentially alleviating the nervous system’s overactivity.

Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers: Expertise You Can Trust

At Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers, we are committed to bringing hope and innovative treatment options to those impacted by Long COVID-19. Our dedicated team of Board-Certified Physicians provide personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. If you are interested in exploring SGB treatment, but have some initial questions on the procedure, visit our SGB page or give us a call at 301.235.9022 to learn more. 

How SGB Can Benefit Long COVID-19 Patients

SGB treatment has shown promise in reducing several core symptoms of Long COVID-19, including:

• Brain Fog: By modulating the nervous system, SGB may help reduce cognitive difficulties, one of the most common and challenging symptoms of Long COVID-19.

• Chronic Fatigue: SGB’s calming effect on the sympathetic nervous system may help reduce fatigue by restoring balance in the body’s energy systems.

• Respiratory Symptoms: Some patients report improvements in breathlessness and heart palpitations following SGB, which may be due to the reduction of nervous system hyperactivity.

The positive results in the study by Lisa Pearson and her colleagues indicate that SGB could play a role in improving quality of life for Long COVID-19 patients. Although more research is needed to fully understand its impact, the findings so far are encouraging and show potential for lasting relief.

Is SGB Right for You?

As with any treatment, it’s essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine if SGB is a good fit for your specific needs. Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers offers personalized consultations, allowing you to discuss your symptoms, understand the procedure, and decide if SGB aligns with your treatment goals. Many patients appreciate having answers to their first-time infusion questions in advance so they can feel fully prepared and confident in their treatment plan.

We’re committed to providing a clear path toward relief from the often-debilitating symptoms of Long COVID-19 Syndrome. With convenient locations throughout the DMV and Orlando, FL, and our unwavering dedication to compassionate, personalized care, Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers is here to support your journey to better health.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you are experiencing symptoms of Long COVID-19 and are interested in learning more about Stellate Ganglion Block, contact Freedom Ketamine Infusion Centers today. Our knowledgeable team is ready to discuss your needs, address any concerns, and help you make an informed decision about your health and well-being.

Photo by YiuCheung