Performance anxiety can strike anyone: athletes before a game, executives before a big presentation, or musicians stepping on stage. This heightened stress response is driven by the sympathetic nervous system—the part of our biology responsible for the “fight-or-flight” reaction. While some stress can be motivating, excessive anxiety can impair performance, cloud focus, and create a negative feedback loop of fear and avoidance. At The Patel Center for Functional Regeneration, Dr. Shounuck Patel offers Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) as a cutting-edge solution to performance anxiety.
Performance anxiety is a form of situational stress that activates the body’s sympathetic nervous system. Common symptoms include:
• Racing heartbeat
• Shaky hands
• Dry mouth
• Muscle tension
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mental fog or freeze response
These symptoms can severely limit professional and personal potential, particularly when conventional treatments such as therapy or beta blockers offer limited results.
SGB involves the injection of a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves in the neck that regulates the sympathetic nervous system. By quieting this response, the brain and body can recalibrate to a calmer state, allowing individuals to perform under pressure without overwhelming stress signals.
• Public speakers
• Professional athletes
• Musicians and performers
• Students preparing for high-stakes exams
• Business professionals facing presentations or interviews
• Increased focus and cognitive clarity
• Reduced physical symptoms of anxiety
• Enhanced mental presence and confidence
• No need for daily medications
• Minimally invasive and fast-acting
Dr. Patel’s extensive experience in nerve blocks and regenerative medicine ensures the highest level of safety and precision. Using ultrasound guidance, he ensures accurate placement of the injection while minimizing discomfort and risk. His holistic approach addresses not just the symptoms but also the underlying nervous system imbalances.
• Performed in-office
• Takes approximately 30 minutes
• No sedation required
• Patients were monitored for 20–30 minutes after injection
• Return to daily activities same or next day
Some patients report immediate improvements, while others notice gradual changes over days to weeks. Benefits can last several months, and repeat injections may enhance outcomes over time.
Yes. SGB can be scheduled ahead of key performances or events to reduce anxiety and enhance confidence.
Most patients describe only minor discomfort during the injection. The entire procedure is typically well-tolerated.
Results vary. Many individuals experience relief for weeks or months. Some choose booster injections for ongoing performance needs.
SGB reduces physiological overarousal but does not alter personality. Many report a calm clarity, not emotional dullness.
Yes. There is little downtime and most resume activities quick. We schedule around your performance calendar.
Whether you’re competing, presenting, or performing, don’t let anxiety hold you back. SGB is a powerful tool for unlocking your potential. Contact The Patel Center for Functional Regeneration in Orange County and Los Angeles at (310) 929-9790 or visit fxregencenter.com to book your consultation.
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (310) 929-9790.