This technique is done under sedation and is designed to treat sensitised nerves and reduce inflammation in the soft tissues of the limb. The procedure begins by applying a cuff (tourniquet) to the upper part of the arm or leg to temporarily isolate the circulation. This allows the therapeutic solution to remain concentrated in the affected area without being diluted by normal blood flow.
Through a small cannula, your consultant infuses a mixture of lidocaine (a local anaesthetic), magnesium, and other anti-inflammatory agents directly into the venous system of the isolated limb. Magnesium plays a role in calming overactive nerve cells and reducing the abnormal pain signalling associated with certain types of chronic pain.
By saturating the limb in this carefully controlled solution, the aim is to âresetâ nerve sensitivity and relieve pain without damaging nerves or tissues.
This procedure is carried out in theatre under sedation. A cannula is placed in a non painful limb in order to give sedation. This is done prior to the tourniquet being applied or cannulation of the limb in which the infusion will be run. Youâll be closely monitored throughout. A tourniquet is applied to isolate the limb, and a small cannula is used to deliver the solution directly into the limbâs circulation.
The infusion typically takes 20â30 minutes. After the medication has circulated locally, the tourniquet is gently released and normal blood flow restored. You will then be observed in recovery before going home the same day.
You may be advised to rest the limb briefly and then gradually resume movement as comfort improves.
At Wessex Pain Clinic we find that the best results come from combining medical treatments with active rehabilitation. Procedures are often most effective when paired with physiotherapy, movement-based exercise, and â where appropriate â psychological support. This comprehensive approach addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of pain and supports longer-term improvement.
Results vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed. Your consultant will discuss whether this procedure is appropriate for you.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, we work as a team and meet regularly to discuss complex, treatment resistant or unusual cases. As such you will often receive the expertise of several pain consultants. We believe that we are one of very few pain clinics to offer this.
Driving advice: You should not drive that day if receiving any sedation. Our procedures do vary on whether they are possible to drive home from yourself, please seek advice from your consultant about driving advice. If you are seeing us for an injection and planning on driving, please check with us beforehand about whether it will be possible to drive yourself home afterwards.
Wessex Pain Clinic provides consultant-led assessment and treatment for acute and chronic pain conditions. Our multidisciplinary team includes Consultant Pain Specialists, Physiotherapists and Psychologists, offering evidence-based interventions alongside rehabilitation and self-management support. We welcome patients from across Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, Surrey and Sussex, including Winchester, Basingstoke, Southampton, Portsmouth, and Chichester â with both in-clinic appointments and remote consultations available across the wider Wessex region.
Our friendly team is on hand to support you every step of the way. Please get in touch at any time.
