February 19, 2025
The Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an innovative therapy that has gained attention for its ability to calm the body’s overactive fight-or-flight response. Originally developed to manage chronic pain, SGB has become a powerful tool for treating PTSD, anxiety, and other stress-related conditions. But what’s happening in your body when you undergo SGB treatment, and why is it so effective?
In this blog, we’ll dive into the science of SGB, exploring how it interacts with the nervous system and restores balance to the bsgody and mind.
The fight-or-flight response is the body’s natural reaction to stress or danger. When triggered, the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activates, preparing your body to respond to threats by:
This response is crucial for survival in short-term emergencies. However, chronic activation of the SNS, often caused by trauma, prolonged stress, or pain, can lead to physical and mental health problems such as anxiety, insomnia, and even cardiovascular issues.
SGB directly targets the Stellate Ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the neck that plays a central role in regulating the SNS. By temporarily blocking this nerve bundle with a local anesthetic, SGB interrupts the overactive fight-or-flight response and allows the body to reset.
Here’s how the process works in detail:
The Stellate Ganglion is part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like heart rate and stress responses. SGB blocks the transmission of stress signals from the brain to the body, calming the SNS and allowing the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS)—the “rest-and-digest” system—to take over.
When the SNS is overactive, stress hormones like cortisol flood the body, leading to anxiety, fatigue, and immune suppression. By resetting the nervous system, SGB reduces the release of these hormones, creating a sense of calm and balance.
Chronic stress and trauma create a feedback loop where the brain continuously signals the body to stay in fight-or-flight mode. SGB disrupts this loop, allowing the brain to “recalibrate” and stop overreacting to perceived threats.
For individuals with PTSD or anxiety, the fight-or-flight response is often stuck in the “on” position. This hypervigilance can lead to symptoms like:
SGB’s ability to quiet the Stellate Ganglion helps alleviate these symptoms by restoring balance to the nervous system. Many patients report immediate relief after the procedure, including a reduction in physical tension, mental clarity, and a newfound sense of calm.
While the anesthetic used in SGB wears off within hours, the benefits of the treatment can last much longer. Here’s why:
SGB stands out from other treatments for PTSD and anxiety because:
In addition to PTSD and anxiety, SGB has been used to treat a variety of conditions linked to an overactive SNS, including:
If you’re struggling with chronic stress, anxiety, PTSD, or pain, SGB may be an option worth exploring. The therapy is safe, effective, and backed by growing scientific evidence.
At The Longevity Center FL, we specialize in innovative treatments like Stellate Ganglion Block to help you regain control of your health and well-being. Our experienced practitioners provide personalized care, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Discover how SGB can help reset your fight-or-flight response and restore balance to your life.