Anxiety Relief: New Nerve Block Trial Shows Promise

A randomized controlled trial conducted by doctors at the Sri Madhusudan Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research in Chickballapur has indicated that a dual stellate ganglion block (SGB) procedure could significantly alleviate anxiety symptoms in patients unresponsive to conventional therapies. Published in the July-August 2026 issue of Pain Physician, the study involved 63 participants with moderate to severe treatment-resistant anxiety.

The dual SGB procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic and steroid mixture into the sympathetic nervous system nerves in the neck under ultrasound guidance, performed on both sides of the neck. Researchers found this approach, which aims to reduce sympathetic nervous system overactivity, led to a greater reduction in anxiety symptoms compared to a sham treatment over a 12-week follow-up period.

This groundbreaking trial is reportedly the world's first randomized controlled study to specifically evaluate dual SGB for treatment-resistant anxiety. The procedure was generally well-tolerated, with minor side effects like temporary hoarseness reported. While not a replacement for medication or therapy, SGB offers a promising additional option for individuals with difficult-to-manage anxiety, potentially extending mental healthcare accessibility to underserved areas.