What to Know Before Your First Epidural Injection

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. This guide explains the whole process to help you know what happens before epidural injections, during, and after them.

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. It is not the first step for everyone.

Important: You need a proper diagnosis (imaging, physical exam) before epidural injections. If you want a correct diagnosis and personalized plan, contact Comprehensive Pain Management in Phoenix now!

Before the Procedure

Getting ready before epidural injections can help the procedure go smoothly and reduce risks:

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

Anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen or aspirin
Blood thinners such as warfarin or Xarelto
Supplements like vitamin E or fish oil
Eating or drinking before sedation
Lotions, perfumes, or nail polish
Driving yourself

During the Procedure

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.

After the Procedure

Life right after an epidural injection is usually simple, but you need to be careful:

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

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Call your doctor if you have:

Fever or chills
New or worse numbness, tingling, or weakness
Trouble controlling bladder or bowels
Severe headache when sitting or standing
Redness, swelling, or bleeding

The Bottom Line

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.

If you’re considering getting an epidural steroid injection and want expert guidance, personalized diagnosis, or safe treatment planning, contact Comprehensive Pain Management in Phoenix today. Our patients trust us for over 30 years of experience, and we’ll be with you every step of the way, from evaluation to follow-up.

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.