Pain Injections
Types of Injections
Therapeutic injections contain local anesthetic and steroid. The steroid injected reduces the inflammation that may in turn reduce pain, tingling, numbness and other symptoms caused by inflammation, irritation or swelling.
Diagnostic injections do not contain steroids. The diagnostic injection is used to help determine the source of your pain. It is designed to offer temporary pain relief. You will be sent home with a Pain Worksheet to log your pain levels at certain times throughout the day. The results will be discussed at your follow up appointment to determine further treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the injection take?
Most injections take about five to 10 minutes. A few procedures last about 30-45 minutes.
Will the injection hurt?
The procedure involves inserting a needle through the skin and deeper tissues, so there is some discomfort involved. However, we numb the skin and deeper tissues with a local anesthetic using a very thin needle prior to inserting the injection needle.
How is the injection performed?
Depending on the type of injection being performed, you will be positioned on your stomach or back. Patients are monitored with EKG, blood pressure cuff and oxygen monitoring device. We will clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution before performing the injection. After the injection, you will be placed on your back.
What should I expect after the injection?
You may have decreased pain and numbness for several hours after the injection, but you may not. Some pain at the injection site is normal. If your injection contained steroid, it could take two to three days to start working and up to two weeks to reach maximum benefit. You may notice some short-term common effects of steroids: increased energy, wakefulness, flushing and increased blood sugar.
What should I do after the procedure?
- If you received a therapeutic injection with steroid, we advise you to take it easy for the rest of the day after the injection.
- If you received a diagnostic injection and have been sent home with a Pain Worksheet, we advise you to go about your normal routine and log the pain levels at the times listed on the Pain Worksheet.
Do I need a driver?
Some injections require a driver. Driver requirements will be discussed at your pre-procedure clinic visit.
Do I need to stop any medications?
Some injections require certain medications to be held for the procedure. The details of which medications to hold and for how long will be discussed at your pre-procedure clinic visit.
Can I go back to work the next day?
Usually, you should be able to return to normal activities the next day, unless directed otherwise.
How long can I expect to be at the appointment?
Expect to be in our facility at least 2-2 ½ hours. This allows for admission, procedure, recovery and discharge time. The actual duration may be shorter or longer as it varies.
How long will the effects of the medication last?
The effects of a steroid injection typically last from a few weeks to several months, but results can vary from person to person depending on the specific injection.
What if the procedure does not work?
The results of the procedure and any remaining available options will be discussed at your follow up visit in the clinic.
