If you’re struggling with chronic back or neck pain, your doctor may recommend a spinal injection as part of your treatment plan. For many patients across Kansas, spinal injections offer targeted pain relief—often without the need for surgery. But if you’ve never had one before, it’s natural to have questions.
Here’s what you can expect before, during, and after a spinal injection at our Kansas pain management clinic.
What Is a Spinal Injection?
A spinal injection—also known as an epidural steroid injection, nerve root block, or facet joint injection depending on the target area—is a minimally invasive procedure. It delivers anti-inflammatory medication (typically a corticosteroid and local anesthetic) directly to the area around irritated nerves or joints in your spine.
These injections help:
- Reduce inflammation
- Relieve pain
- Improve mobility
- Delay or avoid surgery
They are commonly used for conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica, and arthritis of the spine.
Preparing for Your Procedure
Your provider will review your medical history, imaging (like MRI or CT scans), and discuss the benefits and risks of the injection. Be sure to:
- Bring a list of current medications
- Notify us if you are on blood thinners or have diabetes
- Arrange a ride home, as driving afterward isn’t recommended
- Notify us if you are on any kind of weight loss medicines or any allergies.
Fasting instructions may vary depending on sedation use.
During the Injection
The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting right here in Kansas.
Here’s what to expect:
- You’ll lie face down or on your side, depending on the injection site.
- The area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Using real-time X-ray (fluoroscopy), your pain specialist guides a thin needle to the target area.
- The medication is injected, and the needle is withdrawn.
You may feel some pressure but should not feel significant pain.
After the Injection
- You’ll rest for 15–30 minutes and be monitored before going home.
- Some patients experience immediate relief; for others, it may take a few days.
- You may have mild soreness at the injection site, which typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
It’s important to:
- Avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day
- Track your pain levels to discuss at your follow-up appointment
- Resume medications only as directed
How Long Does Pain Relief Last?
Relief may last from several weeks to months. Some patients benefit from a series of injections, often combined with physical therapy or other treatments. Your provider will tailor a plan based on your response and long-term goals.
Why Choose Kansas Pain Management?
At Kansas Pain Management, we serve patients across Kansas with advanced interventional pain treatments—delivered by experienced physicians who focus on long-term wellness. Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love.
If you think a spinal injection might be right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
