Stellate Ganglion Block Therapy
Important things you should know
10+
Years of Experience
$900
per session
15 min
Quick Procedure
100%
Ultrasound Guided
Stellate Ganglion Block Therapy
SGB therapy is a procedure that combats pain and sympathetic nervous system disorders such as anxiety and PTSD. It’s been safely performed by our Board-Certified Physicians at Freedom Ketamine Treatment Centers for years, helping to improve the quality of life for residents of the DMV since 2016.
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During the procedure, a local anesthetic is injected into the neck targeting the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves near the base of the cervical spine. This block procedure temporarily interrupts the sympathetic nerve signals in the affected area, leading to pain relief and improved blood flow. ​​
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Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
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Safe produce, providing significant relief
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Performed under ultrasound guidance for precision
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Trusted by medical professionals for over a decade
How Stellate Ganglion Blocks Work
The stellate ganglion is a group of sympathetic nerves found in the last vertebra of the neck. The stellate ganglion block (SGB) procedure consists of an injection to that area of the neck, performed under ultrasound guidance, with a long-lasting local anesthetic. Numerous published, peer-reviewed medical studies show that this procedure causes significant improvement of symptoms related to anxiety and post traumatic stress. The procedure takes about 15-minutes to conduct, under physician care, and benefits are felt by patients before they leave our office.
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Why Stellate Ganglion Blocks Work
The anesthetic injection to this area of the nervous system works to control the “fight or flight” response. By blocking signals to this portion of the nervous systems’ sympathetic chain, the brain is able to reset this instinct, allowing for long-term relief from anxiety and/or PTSD.
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Read our blog post on SGB Therapy to learn more about this life-changing procedure option.​​​​
SGB Therapy Session Pricing
Includes consultation with our Board-Certified Physician, (which can be conducted as a virtual appointment or in person), ultrasound-guided procedure, and post-treatment monitoring.
Multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal results.
SGB Under Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy
We're proud to be a Physician- Founded and Led Practice
Patients from all around the DMV trust our experienced care team with their mental health.
Navigating Your Concerns: What to Really Expect.
Understanding the Stellate Ganglion Block: Addressing Your Concerns
It is entirely natural to feel a sense of hesitation when exploring advanced medical treatments like a SGB. The neck is a sensitive area, and the idea of an injection there can feel daunting. However, understanding the "why" and the "how" often helps transform fear into a sense of empowered readiness.
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Common Patient Insecurities & The Facts
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: We prioritize your comfort at every step. Before the procedure, a local anesthetic is used to numb the skin. Most patients describe the sensation as a brief moment of pressure rather than sharp pain. The entire process is typically completed in less than 15 minutes—a small window of time for a potentially life-changing shift in your well-being.
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Q: Is it dangerous to have an injection in the neck?
A: Safety is our clinical cornerstone. When patients ask, "is a stellate ganglion block dangerous?" we emphasize that we utilize ultrasound guidance or fluoroscopy. This allows our providers to visualize the nerves and blood vessels in real-time, ensuring the medication is delivered with microscopic precision. This imaging technology significantly minimizes risks and ensures the highest standard of patient safety.
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Q: Will I feel 'different' or out of control?
A: Unlike some sedative treatments, an SGB does not alter your consciousness. You remain awake and aware. The "difference" most patients report is a physical sense of relief—a lowering of the shoulders, a deeper breath, and a quieted mind. It isn't a loss of control; it is the reclaiming of it.
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Q: What does the recovery feel and look like?
A: Immediately following the procedure, you may experience a temporary "Horner’s Syndrome"—which includes a droopy eyelid or a bloodshot eye. While it looks unusual, it is actually a positive clinical sign that the block was successful. It typically fades within a few hours, leaving you ready to begin the next phase of your healing journey.
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Our Promise
We don't just treat symptoms; we care for people. From the moment you walk in, our team is dedicated to providing a serene, professional environment where your questions are always honored and your comfort is our primary metric of success.