Effects can appear within minutes and last a month or longer
Stellate Ganglion Block in Houston: Rapid Relief for PTSD, Anxiety, and Trauma
Experience breakthrough relief from PTSD and anxiety symptoms with this minimally invasive procedure at Catalyst Health & Wellness. Led by Dr. Ho, anesthesiologist and former pediatrician. Three convenient Houston locations open 5am-9pm, seven days a week.
Find Rapid Relief with Stellate Ganglion Block
If you’ve been living with PTSD, severe anxiety, or trauma symptoms that won’t respond to therapy and medications, you understand the exhausting reality of a nervous system stuck in overdrive. The hypervigilance, the racing heart, the constant sense of danger—these aren’t just feelings. They’re your sympathetic nervous system refusing to stand down, even when you’re safe.
Stellate ganglion block (SGB) offers a different path forward—one that targets the biological root of these symptoms rather than just managing them. At Catalyst Health & Wellness, Dr. Ho performs this minimally invasive procedure to help reset your overactive stress response system. Many patients notice significant improvement within days, not weeks or months. With three locations across Houston and hours that fit your schedule, we’re here to help you reclaim your life from trauma.
What is Stellate Ganglion Block?
Stellate ganglion block is a procedure involving the injection of a local anesthetic near the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves in your neck that’s part of the sympathetic nervous system—your body’s fight-or-flight control center. By temporarily blocking nerve signals in this area, SGB can help “reset” an overactive stress response that’s become stuck in high gear.
The procedure has been used safely since the 1920s for various conditions, including chronic pain and circulation problems. Its use for PTSD was first documented in 1990, and since then, research has consistently demonstrated its effectiveness for trauma-related symptoms. A 2020 randomized controlled trial published in JAMA Psychiatry found significant improvement in PTSD symptoms following SGB treatment.
What makes SGB remarkable is its speed. Unlike medications that take weeks to work or therapy that unfolds over months, many patients experience noticeable symptom relief within days of the procedure. For people who’ve been suffering for years, this rapid response can feel like getting their life back.
Research consistently shows powerful results:
What Our Patients Say
How Stellate Ganglion Block Works
Understanding why SGB works requires understanding what happens in your nervous system after trauma. When you experience a traumatic event, your sympathetic nervous system activates to help you survive. In PTSD and chronic anxiety, this system gets "stuck" in the on position, keeping you in a constant state of hyperarousal even when there's no actual threat.
Resetting the Sympathetic Nervous System
The stellate ganglion acts as a relay station for sympathetic nerve signals traveling to your brain, heart, and upper body. When trauma causes this system to become overactive, it can lead to elevated norepinephrine levels in the brain, particularly affecting the amygdala—your brain's fear center. SGB temporarily interrupts these signals, allowing your nervous system to reset to a calmer baseline.
Reducing Brain Inflammation and Hyperactivity
Research suggests that SGB may reduce activity in the amygdala and help normalize the brain's stress response circuits. Neuroimaging studies have shown changes in brain activity following SGB that correlate with symptom improvement. This biological reset can make it easier to engage in therapy and daily life without constant hypervigilance.
Conditions We Treat with Stellate Ganglion Block in Houston
Stellate ganglion block shows effectiveness for conditions involving sympathetic nervous system dysregulation. At Catalyst Health & Wellness, we offer SGB for:
PTSD
Rapid relief from hyperarousal, hypervigilance, and trauma symptoms
Read MoreAnxiety Disorders
Reducing the physical manifestations of severe anxiety
Read MorePanic Disorder
Calming the fight-or-flight response that drives panic attacks
Read MoreCombat-Related Trauma
Extensively studied in military populations with strong results
Read MoreComplex Trauma
Addressing symptoms from prolonged or repeated traumatic experiences
Read MoreTrauma with Physical Symptoms
Especially effective when anxiety manifests physically
Read MoreSGB can also complement our other treatment options for comprehensive care. Many patients benefit from combining SGB with ketamine therapy, TMS, or Spravato for maximum symptom relief. Your personalized treatment plan will be tailored to address your specific symptoms and goals.
Your Stellate Ganglion Block Journey at Catalyst Health & Wellness
We've designed every step of your experience to be comfortable, supportive, and focused on your unique needs. Here's what you can expect when you choose Catalyst for stellate ganglion block in Houston.
Step 1: Free Phone Consultation
Your journey begins with a no-cost, confidential phone consultation. This isn’t a sales pitch but a genuine conversation where we explore whether SGB is right for you.
During your consultation, you’ll:
- Ask all your questions about stellate ganglion block
- Share your trauma history and current symptoms
- Learn what the SGB procedure involves
- Get to know our team in a pressure-free environment
- Receive honest guidance on whether this treatment fits your needs
There’s absolutely no charge and no obligation to continue.
Step 2: Medical Evaluation
If you decide to move forward, you’ll complete a comprehensive medical evaluation. We need to ensure SGB is safe and appropriate for your specific situation.
Your evaluation includes:
- Review of your medical history and current medications
- Assessment of your PTSD or anxiety symptoms
- Discussion of previous treatments and their effectiveness
- Physical examination as needed
- Explanation of what to expect during and after the procedure
Step 3: Day of Procedure
Preparation is straightforward:
- No special fasting required for most patients
- Wear comfortable clothing with easy neck access
- Arrange transportation home (you cannot drive yourself)
- Plan for a relaxed day following the procedure
When you arrive:
- We’ll review any last-minute questions
- Check your vital signs
- Position you comfortably for the procedure
- Dr. Ho will explain each step as it happens
Step 4: The SGB Procedure
The stellate ganglion block itself takes only minutes to perform. You’ll be positioned comfortably, and Dr. Ho will use ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement of the local anesthetic.
What to expect:
- The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes
- You’ll receive a small injection of local anesthetic near your stellate ganglion
- Most patients experience minimal discomfort
- You remain awake and alert throughout
- Dr. Ho’s expertise as an anesthesiologist ensures precise, comfortable administration
Immediate effects you may notice:
- Drooping eyelid on the treated side (Horner’s syndrome)—this is normal and temporary
- Warmth in your face or arm on the treated side
- Hoarse voice that resolves within hours
- A sense of calm or reduced anxiety
These effects indicate the block is working and typically resolve within a few hours.
Step 5: Recovery & Observation
After the procedure, you’ll rest in our comfortable recovery area while we monitor you for any reactions.
Post-procedure care:
- We’ll observe you for approximately 30 minutes
- You cannot drive yourself home (arrange transportation in advance)
- Plan to take it easy for the rest of the day
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours
- Most patients can return to normal activities the next day
We’ll check in with you over the following days to assess your response and answer any questions.
Step 6: Assessing Response & Follow-Up
Many patients notice symptom improvement within the first few days following SGB. Some experience relief within minutes of the procedure.
What to expect after treatment:
- Symptom improvement often appears within days
- Effects typically last one month or longer
- Some patients experience sustained improvement for months
- Repeat procedures may be recommended based on your response
- We’ll help you determine the optimal treatment schedule
Since everyone responds differently, we personalize your follow-up care based on your individual results.
The Science Behind Stellate Ganglion Block
A systematic review published in Chronic Stress examined 17 published studies on SGB for psychiatric disorders and found that preliminary evidence supports the feasibility of SGB for treating disorders involving sympathetic nervous system dysregulation. The review noted that improvements were observed within 5 minutes of SGB and lasted 1 month or longer.
A 2020 randomized controlled trial in JAMA Psychiatry involving 113 participants found that SGB produced significant improvement in PTSD symptoms compared to sham injection. Participants received two SGBs two weeks apart, with meaningful symptom reduction observed at follow-up.
A 2025 retrospective analysis of bilateral two-level stellate ganglion blocks found that 96% of patients showed significant improvement in PTSD symptoms at 6-month follow-up, with an average improvement of 55.48% in symptom scores.
Key research findings:
- SGB can produce rapid symptom relief, often within days
- Effects can last one month or longer with potential for sustained improvement
- The procedure has been studied extensively in military populations
- Research continues exploring SGB for depression, anxiety, and other conditions
Why Choose Catalyst Health & Wellness for Stellate Ganglion Block
01
Led by Dr. Ho – Anesthesiology Expertise
Dr. Ho is uniquely qualified to perform stellate ganglion block. As a board-certified anesthesiologist, he has extensive training and experience with nerve blocks, ultrasound-guided procedures, and patient safety. His background means you receive expert care from a physician who performs these procedures regularly and understands the precise technique required for optimal results.
02
Ultrasound-Guided Precision
Dr. Ho uses real-time ultrasound guidance for all SGB procedures. This imaging technology allows him to visualize the stellate ganglion and surrounding structures, ensuring accurate placement of the local anesthetic. Ultrasound guidance improves both safety and effectiveness compared to landmark-based techniques.
03
Whole-Person Approach
We don’t just perform a procedure and send you home. We treat people, not just symptoms. From your very first phone call, we focus on understanding you as a complete person: mind, body, and spirit.
What this means for you:
- Treatment plans personalized to your unique trauma history
- Consideration of your current symptoms and individual goals
- Coordination with your existing therapists and providers if desired
- Ongoing support as you heal from trauma
04
Extended Hours & Flexible Scheduling
Trauma doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do we. We’re open from 5am to 9pm, seven days a week. Whether you need an early morning appointment before work, an evening session after your responsibilities are done, or weekend treatment, we can accommodate your schedule. All three of our Houston locations offer these extended hours.
05
Comprehensive Treatment Options
SGB works best as part of a comprehensive approach to trauma recovery. We offer additional treatments that can complement your care:
IV Ketamine Therapy
Rapid relief for PTSD, depression, and anxiety
IM Ketamine Therapy
Intramuscular ketamine for those who prefer this method
Spravato Treatment
FDA-approved nasal esketamine for treatment-resistant depression
TMS Therapy
Non-invasive brain stimulation for depression and OCD
Many patients find that combining SGB with ketamine therapy produces the most comprehensive relief from trauma symptoms.
06
Safe, Comfortable Environment
We understand that people with trauma need to feel safe. Every detail of our treatment environment has been designed with your comfort in mind. Our staff is trained in trauma-informed care, and we move at your pace throughout the entire process. You’ll never be rushed or pressured.
Getting Started with Stellate Ganglion Block in Houston
You’ve spent too long living with a nervous system that won’t calm down. Stellate ganglion block offers a path to rapid relief—one backed by decades of clinical use and growing research evidence for trauma-related conditions.
Taking the first step is simple. Call us at (713) 772-5315 for your free, no-obligation phone consultation. During this conversation, we’ll answer all your questions, discuss your symptoms and history, and help you understand whether SGB is right for you. There’s no pressure, no charge, and everything remains completely confidential.
With three convenient locations across Houston and hours from 5am to 9pm every day of the week, we make it easy to get the care you need when you need it. Dr. Ho and our entire team are here to support you through every step of your healing journey.
Monday-Sunday, 5am-9pm
Free consultation
Rapid relief
Three Houston locations
Expert anesthesiology care
Commonly Asked Questions
Get Help NowHow quickly does stellate ganglion block work?
Many patients notice improvement within days of the procedure, and some experience relief within minutes. Research shows that effects can appear within 5 minutes and last a month or longer. This rapid onset is one of SGB’s most remarkable features, especially for people who’ve been suffering with trauma symptoms for years.
Is stellate ganglion block safe?
Yes, SGB has been performed safely since the 1920s for various conditions. The procedure has a well-established safety profile with decades of clinical use. Common temporary effects include drooping eyelid, hoarse voice, and warmth on the treated side—all of which resolve within hours. Dr. Ho’s expertise as an anesthesiologist and use of ultrasound guidance ensures the highest safety standards.
Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. You’ll feel a small pinch from the initial numbing injection, followed by pressure as the medication is administered. The procedure itself takes only minutes, and most patients tolerate it very well. Dr. Ho’s gentle technique and experience help ensure your comfort.
How many SGB treatments will I need?
Many patients experience significant improvement after one or two treatments. Research protocols typically involve two SGBs administered two weeks apart. Some patients benefit from additional treatments over time. We’ll assess your response and recommend a treatment schedule based on your individual results.
How long do the effects last?
Effects typically last one month or longer, with some patients experiencing sustained improvement for many months. A 2025 study found that 96% of patients maintained significant improvement at 6-month follow-up. If symptoms return, the procedure can be repeated.
Can I combine SGB with other treatments?
Yes, many patients find that SGB works best as part of a comprehensive treatment approach. Combining SGB with ketamine therapy, for example, can provide both rapid sympathetic nervous system reset and enhanced neuroplasticity for processing trauma. SGB may also make traditional trauma therapy more tolerable and effective.
Do I need to talk about my trauma during treatment?
No. Unlike trauma-focused therapies that require detailed discussion of traumatic events, SGB works on the biological mechanisms underlying PTSD symptoms. You can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. The procedure addresses the physical hyperarousal component of trauma without requiring you to revisit painful memories.
Will insurance cover stellate ganglion block for PTSD?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. SGB for PTSD may be covered by some insurers, particularly when documented as treatment for a recognized condition with failed conventional treatments. We can help verify your benefits and discuss payment options during your consultation.
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