Regional anesthesia is a medical technique that numbs a specific area of the body to prevent pain during surgical procedures. Unlike general anesthesia, which affects the entire body and induces unconsciousness, regional anesthesia allows patients to remain awake while blocking sensation in targeted regions. Common methods include epidural anesthesia and spinal anesthesia, often used in childbirth and lower limb surgeries. This approach is beneficial as it can reduce the need for opioids, leading to fewer side effects and quicker recovery times. Regional anesthesia is typically administered by an anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist, who carefully monitors the patient throughout the procedure.