ACNES Injections

Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) is a common cause of abdominal pain in adults and children. The condition occurs when nerves within the abdominal wall — the anterior cutaneous abdominal nerves — become pinched or entrapped within the abdominal wall muscle.

• ACNES symptoms can include chronic abdominal pain and tenderness over the same very small area, typically less than 2 centimetres in diameter. Abdominal nerve pain from ACNES tends to be sharp. Activities that tighten the abdominal muscles can make it worse. You may notice that the pain is worse with sitting or lying on the side and less intense when lying on the back.

Treatments are intended provide immediate and long-lasting pain relief; some may also release the pinched nerves. They include:

Trigger point injections. Your doctor may first start with injections of local anaesthetics like lidocaine and/or steroids at the site of the abdominal pain. Known as trigger point injections, they can relieve the pain after one injection.

It can be helpful in the days leading up to the injection to mark the trigger point on your skin with a ball-point pen

Some people find physiotherapy and abdominal wall stretches to be helpful. Other people find breathing physiotherapy and exercise like yoga and Pilates to help.

ACNES injections are generally well-tolerated, though potential side effects can include skin thinning at the injection site, pigment changes, or slight indentation.

Sometimes, a series of injections may be needed if the pain does not go away or returns later. These injections are safe, and low risk. Your doctor will consent you of the risks which can include infection, bleeding and bruising. The equipment used is similar to having a blood test.

To help you prepare for your procedure a copy of key information is provided here for you to download and print.

• We advise you to apply to your insurance company for prior approval before your admission.
• Bring your health insurance prior approval letter to your appointment.
• With the exception of Southern Cross, once your account has been finalised, we will forward your invoice to your insurance company.
• If you do not have medical insurance or prior approval from your medical insurance, we will advise you of total cost of your procedure and full payment will be required on the day of your testing.