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How to Manage Lower Back Pain After Epidural Injections in Scottsdale?
Some people get lower back pain after an epidural injection. It may feel like pressure, tightness, or pain that moves to the hips or legs. This happens because of swelling, tight muscles, or nerve irritation. The pain can be hard, but there are ways to feel better. In this guide, we tell you how to manage lower back pain after epidural injections.
Massages
A massage can help reduce muscle tightness around the lower back. After an injection, muscles sometimes become tight or tense to protect the area. This tension can make the pain worse. A trained massage therapist can press gently on nearby muscles like the glutes and hips. This can manage pain in Scottsdale and improve blood flow. A soft massage can make the muscles relax and allow the lower back to move more easily.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Using both heat and cold packs can help manage pain. Cold helps reduce swelling and numbs the area. Use an ice pack during the first two days after the injection. Wrap it in a towel and place it on the lower back for fifteen to twenty minutes. After two days, switch to heat. Warm packs or heating pads help loosen stiff muscles and improve circulation. Do not place heat or cold directly on bare skin.
Rest
Rest helps the body heal after an epidural injection in Phoenix. Take it easy for the first day and avoid lifting heavy things. Do not twist your back or sit for long hours. Some rest is good, but lying in bed all day can slow healing. Move a little throughout the day to keep muscles from becoming stiff. Balance rest with small movements to help the body recover.
Exercise
Gentle movement helps reduce lower back pain after epidural injections. Start with short walks around your home. Keep the pace slow and smooth. Stretching the hips and back also helps. You can do small exercises like bridges or leg lifts if a provider says they are safe. Do not do exercises that twist your back or cause sharp pain. Safe movements keep the muscles active and support healing.
This video can help you learn simple, effective ways to manage back pain.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some people take over-the-counter medicine to lower pain and swelling. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen can also lower pain, but it does not reduce swelling. Use medicine only as directed on the label. Do not mix different medicines without checking with a doctor. Creams that go on the skin can also help sore muscles near the back.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist teaches movements that protect the spine and lower pain. They can show how to stretch safely and build strength in the core. Therapy helps improve posture and balance. It also teaches how to avoid movements that make the pain worse. A therapist watches how the body moves and makes a plan to support recovery. This is a helpful step for many patients after receiving an injection.
Chiropractic Care
Some patients try chiropractic care to reduce lower back pain after epidural injections. A chiropractor checks the spine and helps improve movement in the joints. They may adjust the back gently or use soft pressure. This can reduce stiffness and help the spine move better. Always talk to the best pain management doctors in Scottsdale before starting chiropractic treatment after an injection.
Last Word
Lower back pain after an epidural injection is common. It can happen because of tight muscles, nerve irritation, or pressure near the injection site. Everyone heals differently, and the right treatment depends on the cause. At AZ Comprehensive Pain Management, we find the exact reason for your pain and create a plan that helps you heal faster. Our patients trust us for over 30 years of experience, and our reviews show their satisfaction.
FAQs
How long does it take for back pain from an epidural to go away?
Pain usually gets better in a few days. For some people, it takes a week or more.
Should I still have back pain after epidural steroid injection?
Some pain after the injection is normal. If it gets worse or lasts too long, talk to your provider.
How to get rid of epidural side effects?
Use rest, ice, heat, light movement, and medication. Always talk to your doctor if symptoms last.
What are the symptoms of a bad epidural?
Watch for numbness, weakness, trouble walking, loss of control over bladder or bowels, or high fever. Contact your provider if these happen.
