Before & After Your Procedure
Before your procedure:
Almost all of our procedures are done in the office setting in our procedure suite without sedation. That means you will be awake for the procedure. This actually increases the safety margin for the procedure as you are unobstructed to communicate with your doctor. However, if you are nervous about the procedure or concerned with possible discomfort, you can request to have a medication prescribed to take before your procedure. If you require some pre-medication, you will have to arrange to have a driver bring you to the office and take you home.
Please wear comfortable and preferably loose fitting clothing. Please keep in mind that we use antibiotic soap to clean the injection area that may get on your clothing and possibly stain your clothing.
For neck, upper back, or shoulder procedures: please try and wear clothing with an open area or low neck line in the back for easy access or please wear an undergarment as we may have to ask you to remove your top, for the procedure.
Please let your doctor know if you have any allergies to medication, iodine, IV dye/contrast, or latex.
Also please let your doctor know if you are currently taking any blood thinners including anti-platelet or anticoagulation medications
Each different procedure carries slightly different risks and rates of complications but in general, please be aware that the risks include but are not limited to: infection, bleeding, nerve damage, paralysis, allergic reaction, visceral puncture, or even death.
Please feel free to ask any questions you may have before the procedure. It is never too late to ask questions or raise any concerns.
After your procedure:
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Rest and Relax at least for the next few hours
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Apply ice to the injection site/s for at least the next 2 hours, on and off every 10 minutes
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If you experience discomfort, you can take Over-the-Counter Ibuprofen or a prescribed anti-inflammatory medication
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Your doctor may give you more specific instructions, such as laying down or performing some activities to test the injection/block
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You should be scheduled for your next appointment before leaving the office
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If you experience any increased pain (above your normal range of pain), fever/chills, change in bowel/bladder habits, or other symptoms that alarm you, please call our office. If you can not reach our office and your symptoms are severe, you should go to the ER or be evaluated by a physician promptly.