Peri-neural injections (also called hydrodissection) are a minimally invasive treatment for nerve-related pain. A high-volume fluid injection is used to gently separate an irritated or entrapped nerve from surrounding tissues.
This technique reduces inflammation, restores nerve mobility, and supports healing — often without the need for surgery.
Nerve-related pain can be complex — but treatment doesn’t have to be. In this video, Dr. Dion Lewis explains how peri-neural injections (hydrodissection) can relieve nerve entrapment pain, improve mobility, and support long-term recovery for active patients..
Nerve entrapment can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness — and can be difficult to identify and treat effectively.
A peri-neural injection, also known as hydrodissection, is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedure that helps to:
Confirm the diagnosis
Local anaesthetic is injected adjacent to the affected nerve. If this provides immediate relief, it confirms that the nerve is the source of symptoms.
Provide symptom relief
A high volume of fluid is injected to gently separate the nerve from nearby tissues that may be causing irritation or compression. Cortisone is included to reduce inflammation and support longer-term symptom resolution.
This precise technique offers both diagnostic clarity and targeted pain relief, particularly when symptoms have been difficult to resolve through other treatments.
These procedures are commonly used to manage:
Peripheral nerve entrapments
e.g. carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel (ulnar neuritis), radial tunnel, PIN entrapment, superior cluneal nerve entrapment, and others
Piriformis syndrome
Sciatic nerve tethering
Post-traumatic nerve pain (after injury or surgery)
Greater occipital nerve block for certain types of headache
Benefits of Peri-Neural Injections
Minimally invasive alternative to surgery
Reduces inflammation and nerve pain
Improves nerve mobility and function
Supports healing and tissue repair
Helps confirm the source of nerve-related pain
ASSESSMENT
We take a thorough history and perform a focused physical examination to determine whether nerve compression or entrapment may be contributing to your symptoms.
PREPARATION
The skin is cleaned, and local anaesthetic is administered to minimise discomfort during the procedure.
INJECTION
Under real-time ultrasound guidance, the injection is precisely delivered. The separation of the nerve from surrounding tissue is confirmed on the screen to ensure accuracy.
REHABILITATION
A personalised treatment plan is discussed and shared with your rehabilitation team to support your recovery and optimise outcomes.
MONITORING
Progress is monitored using tools such as pain charts, and the treatment plan is adjusted as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
