Struggling with chronic pain or symptoms of PTSD? A stellate ganglion block (SGB) shot could be the breakthrough you need to regain control of your life. Connect with us today to learn how this targeted, innovative treatment can help reduce your pain and calm an overactive nervous system.
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a medical procedure that involves the injection of a long-lasting local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a bundle of nerves located in the back of the neck. It was first used by the Veterans Administration to help veterans manage chronic pain in the upper body, but it also helped rapidly reduce PTSD symptoms.
While newer studies indicate about a 70-75% rate of positive reaction to the shots, Corner Canyon Health Center screens clients carefully before recommending the shot, and our clients have typically had fairly significant reductions in PTSD symptoms like anxiety.
If a client’s anxiety level is at an extremely high baseline before the shots, the first one may not appear to have that typical response, but the second and third ones (if recommended) will often produce that. The SGB shot is administered at an outpatient clinic and is an extra cost for clients.
The SGB is believed to work by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which is often overactive in individuals with PTSD. By blocking the stellate ganglion, SGB can reduce the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can lead to a reduction in anxiety, hyperarousal, and other PTSD symptoms.
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of SGB in reducing symptoms of PTSD. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2016 found that SGB led to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression compared to a control group who received a placebo injection. Another study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress in 2021 found that SGB was associated with significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, sleep quality, and quality of life.
While SGB may not work for everyone, it is a promising treatment option for individuals who have not responded to traditional therapies or who are unable to tolerate the side effects of medications. Some of the key benefits of the SBG shot include:
The Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is not recommended for certain individuals with underlying conditions and can increase the risk of adverse side effects such as headaches, dizziness, droopy eyelids, and a sore throat. We carefully screen clients to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for receiving the shot. Those who should not receive stellate ganglion include:
sav headden
My experience at Corner Canyon to put it simply, was life changing. The program gave me a structure to set a solid foundation for my life outside of treatment. The people that are involved with Corner Canyon are amazing. From the staff, to the clients, these people quickly began to feel like family. This place felt like home to me. I truly was cared for in a way that I had never been before. I can honestly say that in the 62 days I was there I didn’t have a single bad day, and that to me speaks volumes. I’m grateful to have had the experience that I did. To anyone who is looking for help – I would heavily recommend going to Corner Canyon.
Jordan Brown
I arrived at Corner Canyon during the worst depressive episode of my life. I had no hope and felt disconnected from everything. I’m a therapist, and I had been doing all the “right” things to care for myself. But sometimes self-care is simply not enough.
Dominique Suazo
When I came to Corner Canyon I was lost. I was 31 years old, struggling with addiction issues and my own mental health, and didn’t know which way to turn. I was very fortunate to land here. Through the help of some people who loved and cared about me, they got me in the doors of this wonderful program.
I was nervous at first, but I soon realized I was amongst peers who were feeling and going through the same things, which put me at ease. I was surrounded by staff who themselves had been through their own treatment and had such compassion and support for me and my well-being.
The Clinical team is wonderful and they are all highly trained experts. They practice many different modalities and with that they were able to get to the core of my issues to treat both my trauma, and subsequently my substance abuse. They did this with such grace, compassion, and empathy, that I always felt they had my best care in mind.
I could write forever about how this place changed my life, but the reality is that there would never be enough words. This program, it’s wonderful staff, and the people who come here make this place more than just a rehabilitation center. It’s a home. I found myself here, I found my tribe, and I was able to unlock decades worth of trauma that led me to a life I didn’t want to lead. After coming here I found the life I always wanted, and it started at Corner Canyon.
Angel Warrior 68
Corner Canyon has put together an excellent residential program. I need a comprehensive program that addressed my health and mental health with cutting edge treatment — they exceeded my expectations. With the continuum of health, mental health, and wellness services offered – they truly individualized my treatment plan. They have an excellent, well-trained staff that genuinely care. I wish I had found them 5, 10 years ago it would have saved me a lot of heart ache. I feel ALOT better than I have felt in sometime and as I continue to take care of myself, I am confident I will be an even better version of myself. Michelle Feb-Mar 2023
Amber Litz
So it doesn’t sound so cliche I won’t say this place saved my life. But I will say this place saved my future!! There are no descriptive words that exist that hold enough volume to describe how extraordinarily phenomenal this place is! They get it, they listen! It kind of feels like the beginning of an awesome horror movie when you first get there cause everyone is so nice, kind, and caring you’re waiting for the ball to drop. Then you realize they are truly that kind & caring! (I have severe trust issues) I never thought I could ever get better so there was no point in going for help because I have been through so much trauma that there wasn’t any facility out there that could handle the magnitude and complex trauma I have endured. However I was wrong! The mentors, I seriously will never be able to thank them enough for listening to my emotional babble some days & they never made me feel like they needed to run off & do the other work they had to do or nothing! Liz & Dom the two on the front line that you only really interact with when you’re checking in. They deserve a lot of recognition & praise that I don’t think they get very often! The fact I struggle with anxiety & answering my phone most days fills me with dread & fear even though I’m the one who emailed the treatment center that was on my caller ID I still froze & couldn’t answer & felt dumb for even reaching out for help. Then the debilitating depression & shame would set in cause I didn’t pick up the phone would set in & I would get so angry at myself! It was a vicious cycle! Up until the day Liz text me & she never left me alone (haha I’m forever grateful for that) it was like chatting with a new friend. After her portion of the admissions process was done I was passed off to Dom, who again never left me alone! The ease & friendly chatting made it easier to commit to checking in. And I did it, I went to Corner Canyon & checked in & it was by far the best thing I’ve ever done for myself! The first week I was there Adam who is a mentor there (I won’t elaborate but…) did something for me that I’ve never had anyone do for me, that was thought of me. I always take care of everyone in my life & make sure they have what they need & they’re okay before myself. Usually not leaving time for myself. But for the first time in 46 years someone thought of me first. It was such a small gesture, but will forever make a monumental impact in my life. That day sealed my fate! I could stay at Corner Canyon, I could complete the program! They really did care! I have so much more to say about every single person there! But this is supposed to be a review, not a novel of my life so I will end this by saying, what you got to lose?! I can 100% guarantee that your worst day at Corner Canyon will still be 10 times easier than your worst day before you got there!
breanne motta
Wow, Corner Canyon Health Centers truly changed my life. I truly entered with not a thought of wanting to live, and I left today and I have SO many reasons now. The staff goes out of their way to not only connect with you, but care for you. They are amazing at taking feedback and truly care about the experience their clients have. You truly do become a family, the community I met while in CCHC will always be with me. I know I made the right choice coming to CCHC they truly saved my life in more ways than one. I couldn’t thank them properly even if I tried. CCHC is the right next step, I promise you will not regret it.
Heather Colemere
Corner Canyon helped changed my trajectory in life. I was headed for disaster . Corner Caynon helped me see that I had more potential than I could ever see for myself. Chris assisted me with Ketamine assisted therapy and he helped me transorm my mindset from negative to positive. I’m so grateful for all Corner Canyon for helping me find myself again!
Emma Dimetrosky
I spent 30 days at corner canyon and overall had a great experience. There was an amazing group of clients and we all got so close which was really added to my experience. Some highlights were Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights, we would do a really engaging activity. I always looked forward to getting out of the house and doing the activities.
Corner Canyon Health Center has a trusted reputation in providing evidence-based mental healthcare with residential and outpatient locations in Draper and the surrounding areas. Our clinical team is passionate about helping those in recovery heal. We offer a range of comprehensive treatments to complement your SGB shot and maximize results. At Corner Canyon, you can expect:
We work with most commercial insurance providers, and whether they cover Stellate Ganglion Block depends on your plan. Contact our admissions team to learn more about your options.
The SGB shot has shown effectiveness after two treatments, spaced two weeks apart, with many patients reporting lasting relief for months.
Some of the reported side effects after receiving the SGB shot are droopy eyelids, red or bloodshot eyes, nasal congestion, mild bruising at the injection site, headache, dizziness, and hoarseness. However, these usually wear off after a day or two.
If you are on blood thinners or blood pressure medication, you may be unable to receive the SGB shot due to an increased risk of bleeding. Always speak with your doctor first so they can decide whether you are a good candidate for Stellate Ganglion Block.
We are specifically formulated to offer personalized therapeutic interventions to adult individuals with mental health disorders.
We provide a comprehensive Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) that offers clients the opportunity to attend group therapy sessions three to five times a week.
Corner Canyon now accepts most major health insurance plans. Get in touch with our admissions team today.