Stellate Ganglion Block for PTSD: How Long Does It Last?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of individuals, often making everyday life overwhelming. Many traditional treatments, such as therapy and medication, provide relief, but not everyone responds to these methods. One emerging treatment option is the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), a procedure that has shown promise in reducing PTSD symptoms. At Soft Reboot Wellness in Menlo Park, CA, we specialize in providing innovative and personalized PTSD treatment, including SGB therapy. A key question many patients ask is: how long do the benefits of SGB last?

What Is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)?

SGB is an injection of local anesthetic nearby the stellate ganglion, a bundle of nerves in the neck that plays a role in the body’s stress response. By temporarily blocking these nerves, SGB resets the overactive fight-or-flight response seen in PTSD patients, helping to reduce anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional distress.

A study in JAMA Network Open found that SGB led to a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, with many patients experiencing relief within minutes to hours after the procedure.

How Long Do the Effects of SGB Last?

1. Short-Term Effects (First Few Hours to Days)

Immediately after receiving an SGB injection, many patients report feeling a sense of calm and relaxation. Some experience improved sleep, reduced panic attacks, and lower overall anxiety within 24 to 48 hours.

2. Medium-Term Relief (Weeks to Months)

For most individuals, SGB provides several weeks to months of symptom relief. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that individuals receiving SGB experienced significant reductions in PTSD symptom severity over an 8-week period. The findings suggest that SGB can be an effective intervention for individuals struggling with persistent PTSD symptoms, particularly when integrated with other therapeutic approaches.

3. Long-Term Benefits (Beyond Six Months)

The duration of SGB effects varies from person to person. Some patients require booster injections after a few months, while others experience sustained relief for a year or longer. Combining SGB with therapy, mindfulness, and other PTSD treatments can help prolong and enhance the benefits.

Factors That Affect the Longevity of SGB Results

Several factors influence how long the benefits of SGB last:

• Severity of PTSD symptoms: Individuals with more severe PTSD may require multiple injections.
• Lifestyle and stress levels: High-stress environments may reduce the longevity of symptom relief.
• Complementary treatments: Pairing SGB with therapy and other wellness strategies can extend its effectiveness.
• Number of injections: Some patients require a second or third injection for longer-lasting results.
• Psychotherapeutic support: Engaging in psychotherapy alongside SGB can enhance and prolong its benefits by addressing the underlying emotional and cognitive aspects of PTSD.

Enhancing the Effects of SGB with Holistic Approaches

At Soft Reboot Wellness, we believe in comprehensive PTSD treatment that goes beyond a single intervention. To maximize the benefits of SGB, we recommend combining it with:

• Ketamine Therapy: Helps rewire the brain and promote neuroplasticity.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Reduces stress and improves emotional regulation.
• Nutritional Support: A diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and magnesium supports nervous system health.
• Somatic Therapy: Engages the body in trauma healing, reinforcing the calming effects of SGB.

Is SGB Right for You?

If you are struggling with PTSD and have not found relief with traditional treatments, SGB may be a viable option. At Soft Reboot Wellness, we conduct thorough evaluations to determine whether SGB, ketamine therapy, or a combination of treatments is best suited for your needs.

Take the Next Step Toward PTSD Relief

The Stellate Ganglion Block is a promising treatment for PTSD, offering rapid and lasting symptom reduction. While the duration of relief varies, many individuals experience weeks to months of improved mental health, with the option for booster treatments when necessary.

Contact us today to learn more about SGB and how it can be integrated into a personalized PTSD treatment plan.