Local anesthesia is a method to deliver pain control medication to
a specific area. It can be injected or rubbed into the skin to numb an area and
its surrounding tissues.
Local anesthesia does not make the person sleepy or relieve other
pains. However, it may be used along with other medications that have
properties to relax or provide stronger pain relief.
Last Updated:
January 28, 2010
Author:
Debby Golonka, MPH
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & John M. Freedman, MD - Anesthesiology