Regional Anaesthetic (Nerve Block)

Comfort. Clarity. Control — The SOZO way

If you’re having surgery on your shoulder, arm or hand, you might be offered a regional anaesthetic. This type of anaesthetic — often called a nerve block — can keep your entire arm pain-free during and after surgery, all while helping you recover faster and more comfortably.

At Sozo Clinic, your safety and wellbeing always come first. That’s why we offer regional anaesthesia delivered by experienced anaesthetists, tailored to your needs.

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What Is a Regional Anaesthetic?

A regional anaesthetic is a technique that temporarily blocks pain in a specific part of your body — in this case, your arm or hand. This is done by injecting local anaesthetic near the nerves in your neck, collarbone, or armpit (called the brachial plexus), which control sensation and movement in your entire arm.

You may hear terms like:

  • Nerve block
  • Brachial plexus block
  • Arm block

All refer to the same approach: numbing your arm while you’re awake — without putting your whole body to sleep.

Why Choose a Nerve Block?

Many patients prefer a nerve block. It’s the safest option, especially for people with certain medical conditions.
Benefits include:

  • Excellent pain relief during and after surgery
  • Less need for strong painkillers (which can cause nausea, drowsiness, and constipation)
  • Avoiding side effects of general anaesthetic (such as grogginess, sore throat, or sickness)
  • Faster recovery and earlier discharge from hospital
  • Feeling more in control of your body and recovery

What Does It Feel Like?

Before surgery, your anaesthetist will perform the injection using ultrasound to guide them safely to the correct nerves. Here’s what you might feel:

  • A warm, tingling sensation as the anaesthetic starts to work
  • Your arm gradually becoming numb and heavy
  • You may still feel pressure or movement, but no pain
  • Some pressure from a tourniquet (a soft band on your upper arm used during surgery)

  • This is similar to the sensation of a dental anaesthetic — no pain, just awareness that something is happening.

How Long Does a Nerve Block Last?

  • Numbness usually lasts 4 to 24 hours, depending on the type of anaesthetic used.
  • In some cases, altered sensation may continue for up to 48 hours.
  • As the block wears off, you may feel pins and needles in your fingers — this is completely normal.

We’ll give you clear aftercare instructions to keep you comfortable at home, but if you’re worried, you can call us at Sozo on the number provided on the website.

Is It Safe?

Yes — nerve blocks are safe and effective when carried out by trained professionals. At Sozo Clinic, your procedure is overseen by specialist regional anaesthetists, and every precaution is taken to minimise risk. Like all medical treatments, there are some rare risks, including:

  • Bruising or soreness at the injection site
  • Temporary numbness or tingling that lasts longer than expected (affects 1 in 10)
  • Very rare nerve damage (1 in 700 to 1 in 5,000) — usually temporary and resolves within weeks

We’ll explain everything to you in detail, so you can make a fully informed decision.

At Sozo Clinic, we only offer regional anaesthetic and would highly recommend this technique. That said, if you would prefer a general anaesthetic, we can still arrange your procedure but it would be in another hospital and be more expensive. We will talk through your options so you can make the choice that’s right for you.

Before

Please tell us if you:

  • Take blood-thinning medication
  • Have any history of anaesthetic complications (you or a family member)
  • Have had recent medical tests at another hospital

During

Throughout the procedure:

  • You’ll remain awake, but relaxed
  • A screen will block your view of the operation (unless you’d like to see)
  • You may be able to listen to your own music through headphones
  • The Sozo team will be with you the entire time

After

While your arm is still numb:

  • You’ll be given a sling to protect and support your arm
  • Avoid heat sources (radiators, fires, hot cups) as you won’t feel pain and could burn yourself
  • Don’t drive or use machinery
  • Start your pain medication before the block wears off (you will start feeling pins and needles)

At Sozo Clinic, we believe safe surgery starts with calm, informed patients.

We’re here to help you feel confident, reassured, and cared for — every step of the way. Got questions? The Sozo team is here to help – chat with us now.

photo of a patient receiving a nerve block prior to surgery to numb the whole arm