Long COVID, or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), continues to affect a growing population long after the initial COVID-19 infection. Lingering symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, heart palpitations, and exercise intolerance can disrupt everyday life. For many patients, traditional therapies provide limited relief. At The Patel Center for Functional Regeneration, Dr. Shounuck Patel offers Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) as an advanced treatment option that addresses the autonomic imbalance often at the root of Long COVID symptoms.
Long COVID refers to persistent or new health problems that arise at least four weeks after a COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can last months—or even years—and impact patients of all ages, regardless of the severity of their original illness.
• Debilitating fatigue
• Brain fog and memory lapses
• Shortness of breath
• Elevated heart rate and POTS-like symptoms
• Sleep disturbances
• Headaches and joint pain
• Anxiety and mood changes
Emerging research suggests that Long COVID may involve dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), particularly an overactive sympathetic response. SGB targets this imbalance by delivering a local anesthetic to the stellate ganglion—a nerve cluster that modulates the body’s stress and inflammatory responses.
By calming the sympathetic nervous system, SGB may reduce inflammation, enhance cerebral blood flow, and promote parasympathetic restoration. Patients often experience improvements in clarity, breathing, energy, and overall stability.
• Minimally invasive with quick recovery
• Targets the root cause of autonomic dysfunction
• Provides relief when medications fail
• Can enhance cognitive and physical stamina
• Complementary to other wellness or rehabilitation programs
Dr. Shounuck Patel is a renowned leader in regenerative medicine with advanced experience in ultrasound-guided nerve procedures. His holistic approach combines functional diagnostics with minimally invasive treatments to address complex chronic conditions like Long COVID.
• Performed in-office under ultrasound guidance
• Takes about 20–30 minutes
• No general anesthesia required
• Minimal downtime with same-day discharge
• Often requires one or two sessions ,depending on severity
SGB has a well-established safety profile and has been used for decades in pain medicine. For Long COVID, it represents a novel application with promising early results. Many patients report improvements within days of their first treatment.
Some patients experience relief within 24–72 hours; for others, the full benefits unfold over 1–2 weeks.
SGB is not a cure, but it is a powerful tool to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life by addressing nervous system dysregulation.
One or two treatments are common, depending on symptom severity and duration.
Yes. SGB complements physical therapy, rehabilitation, neurofeedback, and integrative treatments.
Side effects are typically mild and short-lived, including hoarseness, droopy eyelid, or mild bruising.
If you’re tired of being dismissed or told to “wait it out,” Stellate Ganglion Block may offer a clear path forward. Contact The Patel Center for Functional Regeneration in Orange County or Los Angeles at (310) 929-9790 or visit fxregencenter.com to schedule a consultation.
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