How Do You Prepare For an Epidural Injection
Living with chronic back pain can feel like an endless loop of discomfort, affecting everything from your work to your weekend plans in Austin. If you have explored various options for relief and are now scheduled for a lumbar epidural steroid injection, you are taking a positive step toward reclaiming your quality of life. At Central Texas Spine Institute, we want you to feel confident and ready. As your trusted spine specialist in Austin, we find that an informed patient is a calm patient.
Whether this is your first time exploring spine treatment or you are returning for follow-up care, proper preparation is essential for a smooth procedure and the best possible outcome. Here is how you can prepare for your upcoming injection. Get in touch today.
Review Your Medications with Us
Communication is key. Before your procedure, you must discuss your current medications with your spine surgeon or our clinical team. This is particularly critical if you take blood thinners (like Plavix, Coumadin, or Xarelto) or anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications can increase the risk of bleeding, so we generally require you to stop taking them for a specific period—often 3 to 7 days—before your appointment. However, never stop prescribed medication without consulting your orthopedic spine specialist first.
Follow Fasting Guidelines
For most spinal injections for pain, we need your stomach to be empty to prevent nausea or complications, especially if sedation is used. You will generally be instructed to stop eating and drinking for at least 4 to 6 hours before your appointment time. If you have opted for IV sedation to help with anxiety, you may need to fast for up to 8 hours. Adhering to these rules is vital; unfortunately, eating a heavy meal right before your arrival could force us to reschedule your spine treatment.
Arrange for a Driver
This is a non-negotiable safety rule: you cannot drive yourself home after a spinal epidural. The local anesthetic or sedatives used during the procedure can temporarily impair your reflexes and leg strength. For your safety and the safety of others, please arrange for a friend, family member, or trusted companion to drive you to and from our facility.
Dress for Comfort
On the day of your lumbar epidural steroid injection, prioritize comfort over style. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that is easy to change out of, or that allows easy access to the injection site (your lower back). Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or valuables. Being comfortable helps you stay relaxed, which makes the procedure easier for both you and your spine specialist in Austin.
Monitor Your Health
If you develop a cold, fever, flu, or an active infection (and are currently on antibiotics) leading up to your appointment, please call us immediately. Performing a spinal epidural while you have an active infection can be dangerous. We would prefer to reschedule your appointment for when you are healthy to ensure the procedure is safe and effective.
Ask Questions and Relax
It is normal to feel a little nervous about getting an epidural injection for back pain. Use your consultation time to ask any lingering questions. Whether you are worried about the sensation of the injection or the recovery timeline, our team is here to put your mind at ease. Remember, spinal injections for pain are a common, minimally invasive tool we use to help reduce inflammation and pain.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
At Central Texas Spine Institute, we are dedicated to helping you find relief. By following these simple preparation steps, you are setting the stage for a successful procedure and a faster return to the activities you love. We are proud to be your premier orthopedic spine specialist and spine surgeon team in the region. If you have any uncertainty about your instructions or if you are ready to discuss whether an epidural injection for back pain is right for you, do not hesitate to reach out today.
