Superior cluneal nerve (SCN) entrapment is an underdiagnosed cause of chronic low back and gluteal pain. Although diagnostic nerve block is considered the gold standard for confirming SCN entrapment, there is no consensus regarding the optimal injection approach. This prospective observational study aims to compare the clinical effectiveness of proximal and distal ultrasound-guided SCN block techniques in patients diagnosed with SCN entrapment. Pain intensity and functional outcomes will be evaluated over the follow-up period to assess differences between the two approaches.
Age between 18 and 75 years
Chronic low back and/or gluteal pain lasting longer than 3 months
Localized point tenderness and/or paresthesia on palpation over the unilateral posterior iliac crest
Clinical suspicion of superior cluneal nerve entrapment based on physical examination
Active local or systemic infection
Cognitive impairment or psychiatric disorders interfering with study participation
History of malignancy or cancer-related pain
Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus or severe comorbid conditions adversely affecting general health