Intercostal Nerve Block
The intercostal nerves run along each rib from the spine in the back to the sternum in the chest. These nerves can become irritated, inflamed or damaged, which can result in a band-like pain along the chest wall.
An intercostal nerve block can relieve this pain and increase circulation in the area. During this procedure, local anesthetic is injected near the nerves that supply the area in pain.
If your pain is relieved by this procedure, a series of blocks may be used as an attempt to break the pain cycle.