What is a dual stellate ganglion block?
DSGB stands for dual stellate ganglion block. Under ultrasound, a local anesthetic is placed around the stellate ganglion, a bundle of sympathetic nerves in the front of the neck. "Dual" means both sides are treated.
The stellate ganglion sends most of the sympathetic signal to the head, neck, arms and upper chest. A block quiets that signal for a time. At Reboot Vitality the two sides are done on two consecutive days, the right side first.
Why can the stress response get stuck?
Fight-or-flight is a normal, protective response. The sympathetic nervous system speeds up the heart and readies the body, then the parasympathetic system brings things back to normal.
Anxiety and chronic stress can strain that system over time. When pressure never lets up, calm can feel out of reach: tired but wired, on edge at night, flat by the afternoon.
What does DSGB do, and what does it leave alone?
DSGB is a medical injection with its own risks. It does not stand in for therapy, medication or the doctor who already treats you. Reboot Vitality does not provide talk therapy, and your therapy and other care continue.
Researchers are studying stellate ganglion blocks for PTSD, depression and anxiety. Using a stellate ganglion block for stress-related conditions is an off-label use. Dr. Meighen reviews the benefits and risks with you before anything is scheduled.
How strong is the evidence so far?
A key study is a 2020 randomized trial in JAMA Psychiatry. It enrolled 113 active-duty service members, who received two right-side blocks or a sham injection two weeks apart. Over 8 weeks, PTSD symptom scores fell further in the block group.
The authors noted that the short follow-up limits how far the result applies. The VA's patient guide calls the evidence not conclusive, and Cleveland Clinic describes it as mixed. The two-sided approach has less published evidence. Individual experiences vary.
How do support therapies fit beside DSGB?
The block is the first step of a wider plan, not the whole of it. BrainTap and Dopamine Chair sessions sit in the same phase, and Repair, Restore and Optimize can follow with testing and other care.
Which of these belong in your plan is decided at your evaluation, from your history and goals. You can read about the nervous system reset phase and the services in it before you book.
What happens on the two days?
Day one starts with a consultation and nervous system evaluation, then the right-side injection. Day two is the left side. After each injection the team monitors you for 30 to 45 minutes.
Warmth in the face or a heavy feeling around one eye can be part of a normal response. You can drive yourself home after monitoring, and the staff arrange a driver if there is any concern. See how the ultrasound-guided dual stellate ganglion block in Tampa is set up, day by day.
How do you know whether DSGB is right for you?
Dr. Meighen reviews your symptoms, history, medications and stress patterns before any injection. The protocol is not right for everyone, and the evaluation is where that is decided.
Blood thinners, a bleeding problem or an infection at the site can rule a block out. So can pregnancy and some heart or lung conditions, including a very slow heartbeat or severe lung disease such as COPD. If you are in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911 in an emergency.
Common questions
Is DSGB the same as a stellate ganglion block (SGB)?
DSGB is a stellate ganglion block given on both sides. Much of the published research, including the 2020 JAMA Psychiatry trial, used a block on the right side only.
Can DSGB replace therapy or medication?
No. Your therapy and other care continue. Never stop a medication without talking to the doctor who prescribed it.
How long do the effects last?
The local anesthetic wears off within hours. How long any calming effect lasts varies, and the VA notes that long-term effects are unknown.
Is DSGB covered by insurance?
Ask the team about insurance, including Tricare, before you book.