Updated: 06/03/2026

You might need to take epidural injections, but you want to know what it is, how they work, and what you should do to stay safe. It’s normal to have questions. In this guide, Comprehensive Pain Management explains the whole process to help you know what happens before epidural injections, during, and after them.

Table of Contents

What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

It is a treatment for pain caused by irritated or swollen nerves in the spine. A doctor uses a thin needle to place medicine into the space around your spinal nerves. The medicine is usually a steroid mixed with a numbing drug. The steroid calms swelling and can help relieve pain.

These injections reduce inflammation around the nerves that send pain signals. Many people feel less pain after one or more injections. Some get relief that lasts for weeks or even months. Others may need more than one injection to feel better.

Doctors usually recommend epidural steroid injections in Phoenix for people with back or neck pain that spreads to the arms or legs, sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis.

Important: You need a proper diagnosis (imaging, physical exam) before epidural injections. At Comprehensive Pain Management in Phoenix, Dr. James KellerShabrokh, D.O., has over 30 years of experience treating spine and pain conditions and creating personalized care plans. For a correct diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to you, call us at (602) 971-8200 to schedule your appointment.

What to Expect Before Epidural Steroid Injection

Preparing properly before your epidural injection helps make the procedure safer and smoother. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time can lower risks and help everything go as planned. Below are some important things to do before your appointment:

Tell your doctor about what you take (medicines, vitamins, and supplements).
Stop blood thinners, aspirin, or anti-inflammatory drugs if your doctor tells you to.
Don’t eat or drink for several hours if sedation is planned.
Shower the day of your injection but skip lotions, perfumes, and nail polish.
Wear loose clothes to make it easier for the doctor to reach your back or neck.
Arrange for someone to drive you home.
Ask your doctor any questions you have before the day of the injection.

Things To Avoid Before Epidural Injections

Certain medicines, supplements, and activities can increase risks before an epidural injection. Avoiding them helps your doctor perform the procedure safely and reduces possible complications. Below are some common things you should avoid before your injection:

Thing to Avoid	Why You Should Avoid It
Anti‑inflammatory medicines	They can thin your blood and increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
Blood thinners	These medicines greatly increase the chance of bleeding or bruising.
Certain supplements	Supplements like vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo, garlic, and ginseng can thin the blood and increase bleeding risk.
Eating or drinking before sedation	Eating increases the risk of nausea, vomiting, or choking during sedation.
Lotions, perfumes, or nail polish	They can interfere with skin cleaning and monitoring equipment used during the procedure.
Driving yourself	Sedation or temporary numbness may make it unsafe to drive afterward.

What to Expect During an Epidural Steroid Injection

An epidural injection follows a careful, step‑by‑step process designed to keep you safe, comfortable, and fully informed throughout the procedure. Understanding these steps can help reduce worry and make the experience feel more predictable. Here’s what usually happens during an epidural injection:

You’ll lie face down or on your side.
Your comprehensive pain specialist in Scottsdale cleans the skin and numbs the area with a small needle.
A thin needle goes into the epidural space using imaging guidance for accuracy.
You may feel a little pressure, but not sharp pain.
Medicine is injected to calm the nerve irritation.
The whole process usually takes 5 to 20 minutes.
You’ll be asked to stay still while the doctor works. If you feel sharp pain, tingling, or something unusual, speak up right away.

What to Expect After an Epidural Steroid Injection

Recovery after an epidural injection is generally simple and quick, but taking the right precautions ensures that you heal safely and get the most relief from your treatment. It is normal to experience some temporary changes as the medication begins to work, so paying close attention to your body and following your doctor’s activity restrictions during the first few days is essential for a successful recovery. Below are some important things to keep in mind after your procedure:

You may stay for a short time while the staff checks your reaction.
It’s normal to feel mild soreness or an increase in pain for a day.
Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or twisting for 24 to 48 hours.
Watch for signs of infection, numbness, or weakness.
Slowly return to normal activities as your doctor advises.
Track how your pain changes in the days and weeks that follow.
Steroids sometimes take a few days to reach full effect. Some people feel better quickly, while others notice relief after a week.

Watch this video to learn what to expect after an epidural injection

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to do before epidural injections helps you feel prepared and less anxious. If your doctor has recommended this procedure, plan ahead and follow these steps so it goes smoothly and safely. Taking a few simple precautions can lower your risk of complications and improve your overall experience.

If you’re considering an epidural steroid injection and want expert guidance, a precise diagnosis, and a safe, personalized treatment plan, contact Comprehensive Pain Management in Phoenix. Dr. James KellerShabrokh, D.O., brings over 30 years of experience in spine and pain care and will support you from evaluation through follow‑up. Call us at (602) 971-8200 to schedule your appointment and get started.

FAQs

Can I take gabapentin before an epidural injection?

Usually yes, but let your doctor know. They might adjust your dose if needed.

What not to take before epidural injections?

Don’t take blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or supplements that can thin your blood unless your doctor says otherwise.

Can I take Tylenol before epidural injections?

Yes. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually safe, but confirm with your doctor first.

Can you drink alcohol before an epidural steroid injection?

No. Avoid alcohol for at least a day before the procedure because it can interfere with sedation and recovery.

What can I take for pain before an epidural steroid injection?

Acetaminophen is usually okay. Avoid NSAIDs or any pain relievers that thin the blood unless cleared by your doctor.

Can you eat or drink before an epidural steroid injection?

If sedation is planned, you’ll likely need to stop eating and drinking several hours before. If not, light food may be allowed. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

What to Know Before Your First Epidural Injection