Stellate Ganglion Blocks?

[sonny1]

Hi all, I am wondering if anyone has had a Stellate Ganglion Block? I was informed by PM doctor that I will be needing one or more of these. I have had 10 surgeries on my hands in last 3 years. The surgeries corrected each problem, however, since my last surgery (07/13/2010) I have ended up with severe burning/prickling/swelling/stiffness in my hands. PM was talking so fast, she said CRPS. I just looked at her (must have been a shocked look) and she said "well that would mean nothing to you, but it is what we are talking about (her assessment).) My surgeon mentioned CRPS and I have researched it some, but i guess hearing that for sure, means it is for real. My PM doctor gave me a script for lyrica 75 mg (start @ one per day and go to two per day for now) and also script for lidocaine patches. Follow up on March 22nd. I have checked internet for these blocks and really? They are scary. They go in through the front of your neck for the block? I am scared to death of needles and injections. Every surgical site I had a cortisone shot which sent me to the moon in pain, so I am skeptical anyways aside from fear of needles. My husband is freaking out about it (his uncle WALKED in for an epidural 10 yrs. ago and came out in a wheelchair FOREVER). So, any info on these blocks would be appreciated and any personal info on taking lyrica as well. (I see there are many serious side effects of Lyrica). I cannot afford to gain any more weight.

thank you! (in NYS)