Stellate ganglion blocks show promise in the treatment of Long COVID and chronic fatigue syndromes, as indicated by small studies and anecdotal reports.
A stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a nerve block that targets the stellate ganglion—a bundle of nerves that is integral in regulating the sympathetic nervous system. SGBs have various medical indications. At Wells Medicine, we primarily use them to treat symptoms of PTSD and hypervigilant anxiety. However, new research indicates that stellate ganglion blocks may also be helpful to treat Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
It is possible that some of the symptoms of Long COVID come not from the viral infection itself, but from the ‘overdrive’ state that the sympathetic nervous system can become stuck in following an infection. A stellate ganglion block works by temporarily taking the sympathetic nervous system offline to allow it to ‘reset’ and come out of this state of overdrive.
A 2026 systemic review looked at seven studies of SGBs in patients with Long COVID. Across these studies, patients reported improvements in a number of syndromes including fatigue, brain fog, concentration problems, sleep, headaches, shortness of breath, pain, and other autonomic symptoms. There also seemed to be improvements in cognition, orthostatic intolerance, sleep, and cortisol, and objective changes in fatigue and exercise tolerance, as well.
This data is promising. However, it is important to note that these were small studies lacking control groups, rather than large-scale randomized controlled clinical trials.
While we can say with confidence that our patients generally felt that their symptoms improved following a stellate ganglion block, we can not yet say with statistical significance in what specific way patients improved and in what specific numbers. New data from randomized controlled clinical trials that are currently underway, investigating stellate ganglion blocks as a treatment for Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), may yield stronger evidence regarding SGB’s efficacy in treating these conditions.
About Us
Wells Medicine is a Houston-based practice designed to provide meaningful care for mental health. Providing targeted interventional treatments for Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD and other conditions, with Ketamine Treatments, Stellate Ganglion Blocks, TMS, and Nitrous-Oxide Treatments. Focused on comprehensive care and integration with Psychiatry, Psychology, and Support Services. We are evidence-based, patient-focused and mission-driven.
The content here is for informational purposes and should not be relied upon for medical decisions. For the details of your specific medical conditions and treatments consult your doctors or other qualified healthcare professionals.
