About a month ago, I flew to Cleveland after long discussions with a very dear friend of mine about the results she and her son experienced from an innovative outpatient procedure for PTSD. I read a number of things she had posted, and I was intrigued.
I was diagnosed with chronic PTSD in my late teens from childhood events and did a great deal of work to move through the experiences therapeutically and did so successfully – or so I thought. Fast-forward decades later, and I had an event occur in my life that was reminiscent of my earlier trauma, and I was unable to fully move through this experience. It was almost as if my 'fight-or-flight' switch was stuck on 'ON' and regardless of what I tried to do to move forward, I was stuck for months. Thank God for friends and family.
In recent years, a groundbreaking approach to treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has emerged from a procedure that has been around for decades. The Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), traditionally used for pain management, has shown remarkable promise in alleviating the symptoms of PTSD. The stellate ganglion plays a crucial role in the body’s fight-or-flight response, which is often hyperactive in individuals with PTSD. Researchers discovered that by blocking these nerves, it might be possible to reset this overactive response, providing relief from PTSD symptoms. The center I went to names the procedure Neuro Sympathetic Reset (NSR). I’ll use NSR for the remainder of this blog.
Understanding PTSD
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Many people believe trauma needs to be catastrophic – when, in reality, it can be anything that adversely affects someone. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Traditional treatments for PTSD often involve psychotherapy and medications. While these methods can be effective, they do not work for everyone, and some patients continue to struggle with persistent symptoms.
“Traumatized people chronically feel unsafe inside their bodies: The past is alive in the form of gnawing interior discomfort. Their bodies are constantly bombarded by visceral warning signs, and, in an attempt to control these processes, they often become expert at ignoring their gut feelings and in numbing awareness of what is played out inside. They learn to hide from their selves.” Bessel A. van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
What is the Neuro Sympathetic Reset (NSR)?
The Neuro Sympathetic Reset is an injection of a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a collection of nerves in the neck. This block is typically used to relieve pain in the head, neck, upper chest, and arm. By temporarily numbing these nerves, the NSR can interrupt pain signals and reduce discomfort.
How Does NSR Work for PTSD?
1. Numbing the Stellate Ganglion: The NSR involves injecting a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, located in the neck. This numbs the nerves temporarily.
2. Resetting the Fight-or-Flight Response: By numbing these nerves, the procedure appears to reset the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the fight-or-flight response. This reset can reduce the hyperarousal symptoms commonly seen in PTSD patients.
3. Immediate and Lasting Relief: Many patients report immediate relief from PTSD symptoms following the procedure. While
the duration of the effect can vary, some individuals experience significant and lasting improvements.
Benefits of NSR for PTSD
1. Rapid Symptom Relief: Unlike traditional therapies that may take weeks or months to show results, NSR can provide immediate relief from PTSD symptoms.
2. Non-Psychiatric Approach: NSR offers a non-psychiatric alternative for those who have not found success with conventional treatments or are looking for complementary options.
3. Minimal Side Effects: The procedure is generally safe, with minimal risks and side effects compared to long-term medication use.
4. Improved Quality of Life: By alleviating symptoms of PTSD, NSR can significantly improve the quality of life for sufferers, helping them regain control over their lives.
The Future of NSR in PTSD Treatment
As research continues, the medical community is becoming increasingly optimistic about the role of NSR in treating PTSD. Ongoing studies aim to better understand the mechanisms behind its effectiveness, determine the optimal protocols, and expand its availability to more patients in need.
The NSR has been a true life saver for me. I don’t remember ever being this peaceful and certain of my thoughts. By offering rapid relief and improving the quality of life, this innovative treatment is transforming the landscape of PTSD care. As we continue to explore and refine this approach, the future looks promising for all of us seeking respite from the shadows of trauma.
(my testimonial video)
Never Stop Healing to Be Your Best Self....
Laurie xoxo
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