If you’re suffering from persistent back or leg pain, especially due to a herniated disc or nerve compression, you’ve likely come across two common options: spinal pain blocks and spine surgery. But how do you decide which one is right for you?
At London Spine Health, we tailor every treatment plan to the individual — and that begins with helping you understand your options. Here’s a breakdown of both spinal injections (pain blocks) and surgical interventions, along with guidance on when each is most appropriate.
What Is a Spinal Pain Block?
A spinal pain block, also known as a nerve root block or epidural steroid injection, is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by spinal conditions such as:
Herniated or slipped discs
Sciatica (nerve compression)
Spinal stenosis
Degenerative disc disease
Facet joint pain
During the procedure, a steroid and local anaesthetic are injected directly near the affected nerve root or spinal joint. The goal is to numb the pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.
Benefits of Pain Blocks:
Quick procedure (often 15–30 minutes)
No hospital stay required
Minimal recovery time
Can delay or avoid the need for surgery
Used as a diagnostic tool to locate the pain source
However, pain relief is temporary — typically lasting from a few days to several months. It’s often part of a broader treatment plan including physiotherapy and activity modification.
What Is Spine Surgery?
Spine surgery is aimed at correcting the underlying cause of back or leg pain — not just managing the symptoms. Common surgical options include:
Microdiscectomy – to remove part of a herniated disc
Laminectomy – to relieve pressure from spinal stenosis
Spinal fusion – to stabilise the spine in cases of severe degeneration or instability
Robotic-assisted or endoscopic surgery – for minimally invasive access and faster recovery
Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments, including injections, have failed, or when nerve damage or spinal instability is present.
Benefits of Spine Surgery:
Targets and resolves the root cause
Long-term relief for nerve compression
Improved mobility and quality of life
Increasingly performed through minimally invasive techniques
High success rates for selected conditions
Key Differences: Spinal Pain Block vs Surgery
| Aspect | Spinal Pain Block | Spine Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pain relief (temporary) | Corrects the underlying issue |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive injection | Ranges from minimally to moderately invasive |
| Recovery Time | 1–2 days | 2–12 weeks depending on procedure |
| Duration of Relief | Temporary (weeks to months) | Long-term or permanent |
| Used For | Mild to moderate cases | Severe or persistent cases |
| Risks | Low risk, occasional side effects | Slightly higher, but often very safe in skilled hands |
When Should You Choose a Spinal Pain Block?
You might benefit from a spinal pain block if:
You have acute nerve pain and need fast relief
You’re undergoing physiotherapy and need temporary pain control
You’re not ready for surgery or want to avoid it
Your condition is not yet severe enough to warrant surgery
Your doctor wants to diagnose the exact pain source
Pain blocks can provide a window of relief to support recovery, but they are rarely a long-term solution on their own.
When Is Spine Surgery the Better Option?
Spine surgery is often recommended when:
Pain has lasted over 6–12 weeks despite all non-surgical treatments
You experience progressive numbness, weakness, or mobility loss
You have spinal instability, fractures, or deformity
There’s a risk of permanent nerve damage (e.g. foot drop, cauda equina)
You’ve had repeated pain block injections with only short-term benefit
At London Spine Health, we use the least invasive method possible — often robotic or endoscopic — to maximise safety and minimise recovery time.
Expert Guidance Makes All the Difference
Choosing between a pain block and surgery isn’t a decision you have to make alone. Our team at London Spine Health takes time to evaluate your MRI, history, lifestyle, and goals before recommending a personalised care pathway.
Book a Consultation with London Spine Health
Not sure whether a spinal pain block or surgery is right for you? Speak to a consultant spine specialist today.
