Procedure Description
A femoral nerve block is a minimally invasive injection that delivers local anesthetic (and sometimes corticosteroid) near the femoral nerve in the groin region. The femoral nerve provides sensation and motor function to the front of the thigh, part of the hip, and knee. Blocking this nerve can provide temporary pain relief, reduce the need for opioids, or improve outcomes after surgery or injury.
This procedure may be used for surgical anesthesia, postoperative pain control, or diagnostic and therapeutic pain relief in chronic conditions.
What It Treats
A femoral nerve block is commonly used to manage pain from:
Knee surgery (e.g., total knee replacement, ACL reconstruction)
Hip surgery (e.g., hip fracture repair)
Femur fractures or injuries
Chronic pain syndromes involving the thigh or knee
Postoperative pain management to reduce narcotic use
Pain from trauma or nerve entrapment in the femoral region
How It Is Performed
You will lie on your back with your leg slightly turned outward.
The skin near the groin is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic.
The provider uses ultrasound guidance and/or a nerve stimulator to locate the femoral nerve, which runs near the femoral artery and vein.
A thin needle is inserted adjacent to the femoral nerve, and a local anesthetic is injected. In some cases, steroids may be added to prolong relief.
For surgery or longer-duration pain relief, a catheter may be placed near the nerve to deliver continuous anesthetic over several days.
The entire procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes, and is performed in an outpatient setting or as part of a surgical care plan.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
You may eat and drink normally unless sedation is planned.
Inform your provider if you:
Take blood thinners
Have bleeding disorders, infection, or a history of allergic reactions to anesthetics
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
You may need to pause anticoagulants several days prior—follow your provider’s instructions.
Arrange for transportation, especially if the procedure affects your ability to walk or drive afterward.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may experience immediate numbness or weakness in the front of the thigh and knee.
Pain relief may last 6 to 24 hours with a single injection, or longer if a continuous catheter is used.
You should avoid walking without assistance until strength and sensation return fully, as the leg may temporarily buckle or feel unstable.
Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is normal and temporary.
Call your provider if you experience:
Persistent numbness, weakness, or tingling
Infection signs, such as fever, redness, or drainage at the injection site
Allergic reaction symptoms, including rash or difficulty breathing
Precise, Localized Relief for Lower Extremity Pain
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we use ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks to provide safe, effective pain relief for patients undergoing surgery, recovering from injury, or suffering from chronic thigh and knee pain. Our minimally invasive approach helps reduce reliance on opioids and accelerates your return to normal activity.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to find out if a femoral nerve block is the right solution for your pain or surgical recovery plan.