How does a nerve block (anesthesia) last so long?

7.89K views

I had shoulder surgery yesterday. Prior to the procedure an anesthetist performed a nerve block. It’s been 16 hours and I still cannot feel or move my arm. I am just now starting to be able to wiggle my fingers.

I don’t understand how the anesthesia can last so long. I saw the needle with the medication and there really wasn’t much of it. How is the medication not quickly carried away from the injection site?

Thank you in advance!

In: 26

6 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

16 hours? Wow. When I had a nerve block for that it was maybe 6 hours.

Though the oddest part was as my arm went dead. I could see my arm but I couldn’t move it. Strange feeling.

You are viewing 1 out of 6 answers, click here to view all answers.