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Nerve block wear-off timer

Your nerve block is keeping the area numb and comfortable now — but it will wear off. Enter your block type and when it was placed to get an estimated wear-off window, a live countdown, and the one time that matters most: when to take your first pain medicine — before the numbness fades.

These are typical ranges for single-shot blocks with a long-acting local anesthetic. Your block may wear off a little sooner or later — the goal is simply to take your pain medicine before it does, not to predict the exact minute.

Not sure? It's on your discharge paperwork, or ask your nurse before you leave.

Roughly when the injection was done (in theatre / the block room). A rough time is fine.

When to take your pain medicine

Stay ahead of rebound pain — the moment that matters.

Numb & comfortable block is working Tingling wearing off Worn off pain returns Take your first pain medicine here at the first tingling — before pain sets in Block placed Hours later
Stay ahead of the pain. The timer above estimates when tingling starts for your block — set an alarm for it, especially overnight.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Saurabh Shukla, MBBS, DNB Anesthesiology · Last updated June 2026

Frequently asked questions

How long does a nerve block last after surgery?

It depends on the block and the local anesthetic used. Single-shot blocks with a long-acting drug (bupivacaine or ropivacaine) commonly last about 8–24 hours. Sciatic/popliteal blocks at the back of the knee tend to last longest, and liposomal bupivacaine (Exparel) can last 2–3 days. This timer gives an estimated window for your block type — your own block may wear off a little sooner or later.

When should I take pain medicine after a nerve block?

Start your prescribed pain medicine BEFORE the numbness fully fades — at the first tingling or return of feeling — so you stay ahead of the pain. Don't wait until the block has completely worn off and pain has set in. Setting an alarm for the time this tool gives you is the simplest way to not get caught out, especially overnight.

What is rebound pain after a nerve block?

When a strong (dense) block wears off, pain can return suddenly and feel severe for a few hours — this is rebound pain. Taking your regular pain medicine on schedule before the block wears off, rather than waiting for pain to build, blunts it. It usually settles once your oral pain medicines are working.

Is it dangerous if my nerve block hasn't worn off yet?

Some extra numbness or weakness lasting a bit longer than expected is usually normal. But call your team if numbness or weakness lasts well beyond the estimated window, if you develop new or worsening weakness, severe pain despite taking your medicine, or any sign you've injured the numb limb. Protect the numb area in the meantime.

Can I drive or walk normally with a nerve block?

No. Don't drive until full sensation and strength are back and you're off sedating pain medicine. With a leg or foot block your leg can be weak and numb — a major fall risk — so don't stand or walk without help until strength returns.