[Actual effectiveness of nerve block against neuropathic pain]

Evidence regarding the effectiveness of nerve block in treating neuropathic pain is scarce. However, in actual clinical situations, nerve block has been used as a treatment in combination with other methods, such as pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and physiotherapy. The goal of neuropathic pain treatment is not a complete recovery but some improvement in the activities of daily living (ADL) as well as the quality of life. There is no single effective, definitive treatment for the various causes of neuropathic pain; therefore, the active use of nerve block should be considered in patients who show a positive response to this treatment. This is because nerve block reduces pain and improves the patients' ADL. Nerve block also has the potential to be effective as an early treatment of and prophylaxis for neuropathic pain. Therefore, the use of nerve block should be considered from the onset of pain. In recent years, methods such as ultrasound-guided nerve block and thermocoagulation with pulsed radiofrequency have become more commonly used as safer and more accurate nerve block techniques. This article discusses the current clinical status of nerve block against neuropathic pain.