Post-Procedure Instructions

Following your procedure, you may experience:

1.  Numbness – common if a local anesthetic was used.  Exercise caution with any       

     area that is numb; do not apply heat or ice to the area until all feeling has returned.

2.  Soreness – common at the injection site after any type of injection/block.  You may   

     put ice on the area, 15-20 minutes several times per day for the first 24-48 hours.

3.  Mild to Moderate Headache – Related to the steroid that was injected.  An over- 

     the-counter medication of your choice may be used. 

4.  Increase in pain level or change in pain location – Common for the first 24 hours after

     the injection/block; take pain medication as needed.

5.  Hotflashes, Facial Redness, Mood Changes, Increased Appetite, Menstrual

     Irregularities – Common for the first days to weeks following an injection/block.  This   

     is due to the effects of the steroid that was injected.  These will go away in time.

6.  Increased Blood Sugar – If you are diabetic, your blood sugar may be higher than   

     normal for the first 3-5 days after an injection/block.  Please contact your treating     

     diabetes physician for any advice regarding this possible side effect.

7.  Activity – Blood Patch: Your activity should be minimal for the next 24 hours.  Rest is

     necessary so as not to dislodge the “patch.”

     Activity – All other injections/blocks:  No restriction in activity is necessary.  Use    

     your own judgment and be careful not to “overdo it” just because you may be feeling   

     better.

8.  Please call our office (click here for phone numbers) if you experience any of the following:

     a.  Redness, Drainage or Swelling around the injection site.

     b.  Severe Headache, may or may not be accompanied by Nausea/Vomiting

     c.  Fever (greater than 100^o), stiff neck