A stellate ganglion block (SGB) may be considered for some adults with trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, or related pain conditions. Dr. Rainier Guiang, MD first reviews your history, current care, medications, and goals in a focused cash-pay consult. If appropriate, he can explain whether an image-guided SGB discussion belongs in your plan in Riverside or Menifee.
Cash-pay note: Regenerative Medicine at UPC is separate from insurance-based University Pain Consultants. We explain the proposed plan and costs before you decide; a superbill is available on request.
Who SGB may be for
- Adults with PTSD or trauma-related symptoms who want to discuss an interventional option
- Patients with anxiety symptoms or pain where a sympathetic nerve block may be clinically relevant
- People who understand that SGB is not a replacement for appropriate mental-health care
- Patients able to describe realistic goals such as sleep, distress, or function
Who may not be a good fit
- Anyone needing urgent psychiatric or medical evaluation
- People with medication, bleeding, infection, airway, or other safety concerns that make a block inappropriate
- Those seeking a guaranteed cure for PTSD, anxiety, depression, or chronic pain
- Patients who are not ready to coordinate the procedure with their existing behavioral-health team when needed
We may recommend a different evaluation or ask you to coordinate care before considering an SGB.
What a stellate ganglion block is
The stellate ganglion is part of a group of nerves involved in sympathetic signaling in the neck. An SGB uses a small amount of local anesthetic near those nerves, typically with imaging guidance, to temporarily interrupt signaling. The possible role for trauma-related symptoms is still an individualized clinical decision; results vary and are not guaranteed.
Learn more on our service page for stellate ganglion block for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
What patients often ask about SGB
We discuss the reason for considering the block, expected temporary effects, alternatives, and how follow-up will work. An SGB is a procedure, not a substitute for therapy, medication management, crisis support, or other care recommended by your treating clinician.
What to expect
- Consult ($95, cash-pay) — review of symptoms, diagnosis, medications, medical history, and goals
- Shared decision-making — discussion of whether SGB is reasonable, plus alternatives and safety considerations
- Procedure visit if appropriate — image-guided injection with observation and instructions for the remainder of the day
- Follow-up — review of your response and coordination with ongoing care when appropriate
Locations
Regenerative Medicine at UPC serves Riverside and Menifee, CA. Call 951-900-3253 or email regeneration@unipain.com.
FAQ
Can SGB cure PTSD or anxiety?
No. A response is not guaranteed, and SGB does not replace evidence-based mental-health treatment. We discuss it only when the potential benefits and risks fit the individual situation.
What can I expect right after the block?
Temporary hoarseness, eyelid drooping, warmth, or changes on the treated side can occur. We review these effects and the warning signs that need prompt attention.
Is SGB covered by insurance?
This is a cash-pay regenerative service. Traditional insurance-based pain care is separate through University Pain Consultants at 951-784-7111.
What if I am in crisis?
An SGB consultation is not crisis care. If you may hurt yourself or someone else, call 911 or 988 in the United States, or use your local emergency service.
Would a careful review help you decide whether SGB is appropriate?
Book your $95 consult · Call 951-900-3253 · regeneration@unipain.com
