Stellate Ganglion Block for ME/CFS & Long COVID

Jun 16
3 min read

Updated: Jun 26

Can a Stellate Ganglion Block Help ME/CFS and Long COVID?

New research from Duricka and Liu (2025) adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that autonomic nervous system dysfunction may play a role in both Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Their pilot study explored whether Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) could improve symptoms associated with these complex conditions.

Could Stellate Ganglion Block Help Long COVID and ME/CFS Symptoms?

Persistent fatigue, brain fog, sleep problems, dizziness, and exercise intolerance are common symptoms experienced by individuals with Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). While these conditions are complex and likely involve multiple mechanisms, growing evidence suggests they share one important feature: dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, particularly excessive sympathetic ("fight-or-flight") activity.

What Do Long COVID and ME/CFS Have in Common?

Many people with Long COVID and ME/CFS experience symptoms consistent with autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Instead of properly shifting between stress and recovery states, the body may become stuck in a heightened sympathetic state. This can contribute to fatigue, poor sleep, brain fog, rapid heart rate, temperature intolerance, anxiety, and post-exertional symptom flares.

Because the sympathetic nervous system plays a central role in regulating stress responses and blood flow, researchers have begun investigating treatments aimed at restoring balance rather than simply treating individual symptoms.

What Is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

A Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided procedure that targets a collection of nerves in the neck called the stellate ganglion. By temporarily blocking these nerves with local anesthetic, the procedure may help "reset" abnormal sympathetic nervous system activity and allow the body to return to a more balanced state.

Although SGB has traditionally been used for pain conditions and PTSD, researchers are increasingly exploring its potential role in conditions associated with autonomic dysfunction, including Long COVID and ME/CFS.

Research on SGB for Long COVID and ME/CFS

What Did the Duricka & Liu (2025) Study Find?

In a small pilot study, Duricka and Liu evaluated 10 patients with Long COVID and ME/CFS who underwent stellate ganglion block treatment. Participants reported improvements across several symptom areas, including:

Fatigue and energy levels
Brain fog and cognitive function
Sleep quality
Mood and emotional well-being
Orthostatic symptoms such as dizziness and lightheadedness
Exercise tolerance and physical functioning
Overall quality of life

These findings support the theory that excessive sympathetic activation may contribute to symptoms in some individuals and that restoring autonomic balance may provide relief.

Important Limitations

It's important to be honest about what this study can and cannot tell us.

This was a pilot study involving only 10 patients. There was no placebo group, and larger randomized controlled trials are needed to determine who benefits most and how durable the effects may be. Not every patient responds, and SGB should not be viewed as a cure for Long COVID or ME/CFS.

However, these early results are encouraging and add to a growing body of research suggesting that autonomic nervous system dysfunction may be an important treatment target.

Is Stellate Ganglion Block Right for Me?

If you struggle with Long COVID, ME/CFS, brain fog, fatigue, sleep disruption, dizziness, or other symptoms that may reflect autonomic dysfunction, a Stellate Ganglion Block may be worth exploring. Treatment decisions should always be individualized and based on your symptoms, medical history, and goals.

At Reset Medical & Wellness Center, we offer an advanced dual-level Stellate Ganglion Block, termed Neuro Sympathetic Reset (NSR), as part of a trauma-informed approach to nervous system recovery. Learn more about NSR and how it may help regulate symptoms associated with autonomic dysfunction.

Schedule a Free Phone Consultation

Wondering whether NSR may be appropriate for you or a loved one?

Contact our team to schedule a free phone consultation or complete our intake. We'll answer your questions, discuss your symptoms, and help determine whether NSR may fit into your recovery plan.

Michael J. Louwers, MD

CEO & Medical Director, Reset Medical & Wellness Center

Dr. Michael Louwers is a double board-certified physician specializing in trauma-informed nervous system care and interventional mental health treatments,

References

Duricka DL, Liu Y. Stellate Ganglion Block Reduces Symptoms of SARS-CoV-2-Induced ME/CFS: A Prospective Cohort Pilot Study. 2025.