Introduction:
Medical science constantly unveils innovative treatments catering to both the physical and mental aspects of health. One such groundbreaking intervention gaining traction in recent years is the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB). SGB was originally employed as a pain management technique, but has recently emerged as a potential new mechanism in addressing stress-related disorders, offering ray of hope for those grappling with conditions like anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.
Understanding the Stellate Ganglion Block:
The stellate ganglion is a bundle of nerves located in the neck at the base of the cervical spine. The block involves injecting a local anesthetic into this collection of nerves, effectively interrupting the sympathetic nervous system’s signaling. This block was originally developed for relief in conditions such as shingles and complex regional pain syndrome, but recently researchers and clinicians are now exploring its application in mental health.
How it Works:
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body’s “flight or fight” response, which can become overactive in individuals with stress-related disorders. This heightened state of arousal can contribute to symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and anxiety. Through administering anesthetic to the stellate ganglion, the SGB aims to lessen this hyperactivity, providing relief from the debilitating effects of stress-related disorders.
Efficacy in PTSD:
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can arise after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Traditional treatments for PTSD include medications and therapy, but not all individuals respond effectively to these approaches. SGB has shown promise as an alternative or complementary therapy for PTSD. Studies suggest significant reduction in symptoms such as hyper arousal, intrusive thoughts, and nightmares.
The Role of Research:
Ongoing research is essential to fully understand SGB’s effectiveness and safety. Preliminary results are positive, but further double-blind clinical trials are needed to formally establish its place in mental health protocols. A large body of evidence has been published by Dr. Sean Mulvaney through his experience with treating over 4,000 patients with SGBs. In 2019, Dr. Mulvaney published the first multi-centered randomized clinical trial showing efficacy of SGB for PTSD published in a major journal: Effect of the Stellate Ganglion Block Treatment on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms-A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2019. His work with the SGB began over a decade ago, when he published the very first case series showing the long-term benefit of SGB for PTSD: The Use of Stellate Ganglion Block in the Treatment of Panic/Anxiety Symptoms with Combat-Related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder; Preliminary Results of Long-Term Follow-Up: A Case Series, Pain Practice. 2010 Jul-Aug;10(4):359-65. doi: 10.1111/j.1533-2500.2010.00373.x. Epub 2010 Apr 20.
A recent study published in Military Medicine demonstrated significant improvements in TBI and PTSD symptoms using bilateralSGBs, highlighting its potential for broader applications: The Successful Use of Bilateral 2-Level Ultrasound-Guided Stellate Ganglion Block to Improve Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms: A Retrospective Analysis of 23 Patients.
To learn more about his passion for helping patients with this procedure, experience an interview with our Founder, Carol Bender, and Dr. Sean Mulvaney:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnVWEf9UYxE&lc=UgwS9TXsQ8fW0SdSWVF4AaABAg.9TblBgY29vW9nyh-IzWebw
Beyond PTSD- Exploring Other Applications:
PTSD has been a primary focus, but researchers are also investigating SGB potential in addressing other stress-related conditions and disorders. Panic attacks, certain chronic pain conditions, and anxiety disorders are among the areas being explored. The versatility of SGB highlights its potential to impact a broad spectrum on mental health challenges. Here is the first study demonstrating successful treatment of Anxiety with SGB. Stellate Ganglion Block Reduces Anxiety Symptoms by Half: A Case Series of 285 Patients. Journal of Personalized Medicine 2023.
First Hand Experience:
Even before its inception in 2016, the Joy Wellness Partners clinic has been a part of the life changing Stellate Ganglion Block Procedure. Our Founder, Carol Joy Bender, witnessed the noticeable changes in her patients in her integrative wellness clinic and began encouraging more military veterans, patients with recent traumatic experiences, and her family members to try the procedure. After receiving both stellate ganglion blocks herself, she believed that it was a safe and logical treatment choice for many individuals. Stellate Ganglion Blocks were amongst the first treatments offered at Joy Wellness Partners, and the clinic has performed well over a thousand procedures to date, with multiple procedures performed each week. As of 2024, the JWP offices in San Diego, CA and Provo, UT partner with several veteran non-profits to enable the procedure to be cost-free to military veterans struggling with the effects of stress injury.
Conclusion:
Once confined to the realm of pain management, the Stellate Ganglion Block is increasingly stepping forward as a potential breakthrough in the realm of mental health treatment. While ongoing research is essential to solidify its safety and efficacy, the early results are promising, offering hope to individuals grappling with stress-related disorders. Symbolizing the potential for innovative approaches and the evolving landscape of mental health interventions, SGB stands as a ray of hope to bring relief to those in need. Call to schedule an appointment today to talk to our staff about how a stellate ganglion block may benefit you. Our current treatment locations are listed on our home page.
AUTHOR: Rachel Gunderson, NP
