Post-Procedure Instructions

Activity

  • Avoid any strenuous activity for the remainder of today.
  • Perform only light activities — no heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or straining.
  • Gentle massage therapy is allowed.
  • Ice applied to the area of injection is permitted.
  • Starting tomorrow, you may resume normal daily activities as tolerated. Keep you activity level the same as prior to your injection. Do not increase your activity level or intensity until your followup appointment and you have discussed it with the provider.
  • Avoid physical therapy or strenuous activity for at least 3 days.

Diet & Medications

  • Resume your regular diet and drink plenty of fluids.
  • If sedation was administered, do not consume alcoholic beverages for the remainder of the day.
  • Resume all regular medications.
  • Discuss with your provider when you may resume prescribed anticoagulants if you discontinued these prior to your procedure.
  • Take any pain medications prescribed as needed.

Vaccinations

It is recommended that you delay receiving any vaccinations, including the flu vaccine, for two (2) weeks following your injection.

Common Side Effects

Headache: Mild headaches may occur. Take over-the-counter or prescribed medications as directed by your referring physician.

Restlessness or Insomnia: You may experience difficulty sleeping for several nights. Contact your referring physician if sleep aids are needed.

Facial Flushing or Redness: Temporary facial warmth or redness may occur and should subside within a few days.

Diabetic Patients: Monitor your blood sugar closely for the next week, as glucose levels may be elevated. Contact your physician for any abnormal readings. Inform them you recently had a spinal procedure so medication or diet adjustments can be made if needed.

Pain or Discomfort: Your usual pain may temporarily worsen for a few days. Apply a cold pack for 10 minutes, 3–4 times daily as needed. Take your prescribed pain medication as directed.

When to Contact Our Office

Call our office immediately if you experience:

  • A severe headache unrelieved by medication
  • Fever or chills
  • New or worsening pain, weakness, numbness, or other concerning symptoms