[SEPTEMBER 2021] WellStone is proud to offer the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) to Alabama veterans experiencing PTSD, at no cost. The SGB is a treatment that existed for many years but has recently been shown to “reset” some of the symptoms of PTSD in the nervous system, especially hypervigilance— an exaggerated state of sensitivity.

This treatment typically costs $800, but is available at no cost to participants in this pilot project which will collect data on efficacy at one and six months after treatment. (Project results data does not name participants).

Assisting veterans to obtain this treatment began with the Cullman County VFW, and grew quickly thanks to local government, businesses and individuals. This pilot project at WellStone was funded through the efforts of Alabama Senator Garlan Gudger and Representative Randall Shedd with the goal of collecting data to document the effectiveness of the SGB procedure on PTSD symptoms.

How does it work?

Veterans interested in receiving the treatment should follow the steps below:

  1. Call WellStone Cullman’s Access to Care line at 256-255-1020 to schedule an SGB Pilot Project appointment
  2. Visit the WellStone office in Cullman to complete a PTSD scale and psychological assessment
  3. Once qualified, WellStone will schedule an SGB injection
  4. Attend a one and six month follow up appointment at WellStone to collect data and ensure the treatment is working effectively.

Individuals must visit Nesbitt Pain Associates on the campus of Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham to receive the injection. While these appointments do require travel, testimonials prove to be worth the time.

If a veteran is interested in more information about the SGB shot, they are invited to call the Access to Care line for more information. Confidentiality is strictly protected.

 

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About Wellstone Inc.: WellStone Inc. is a non-profit community organization that provides mental health and substance abuse services supporting the integrated health of the whole person. WellStone operates 12 facilities throughout North Alabama and Cullman. WellStone is certified through the Alabama Department of Mental Health. WellStone offers programs for children, adolescents, adults, substance abuse, school-based outreach, community services and more. For more information, visit www.wellstone.com. Additional media inquiries can be directed to the Communications Office by emailing pr@wellstone.com or by calling (256) 705-6301.