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Pain Management Frequently Asked Questions

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1. How long will the injection take?
In most patients the epidural space is easily located and the injection takes only a few minutes to perform. However, in some patients, due to unique anatomy or previous surgeries it is difficult to correctly place the needle in the epidural space. It may take a half hour or more to perform the injection, so plan to allow 30 minutes for the procedure. However, it may be done in a shorter time.

2. How does the anesthesiologist know the needle is correctly placed?
The anesthesiologist you have been referred to has extensive experience in the treatment of patients with pain and in using regional anesthesia to relieve a patient’s pain. The epidural space is located by using a special technique of needle placement and x-ray.

3. How long will it take for the steroid to relieve my symptoms?
The steroids injected should have their peak effect in five to seven days. You may experience some decrease in pain the day after your injection, but the full effect is not expected for about a week.

4. How long will the pain relief last?
This is a very difficult question to answer because every patient is different. Some patients receive dramatic pain relief while others may have only some pain relief. If you respond well to the injection it is common for the effect to last for three to six months.

5. Will more than one injection be needed and, if it works how often may injections be safely done?
If one injection only partially relieves your pain, it is recommended that a series of up to three injections be done. The injections will be done at 10 days to two week intervals. It is recommended that patients receive an injection or series of injections no more frequently than every four to six months. The right therapy for you must be decided upon between you and your pain management doctor. Therapy will be designed to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks.

6. What will happen if the epidural injections do not relieve my pain?
Back pain is not always easily treated, although it occurs in about 60% of Americans. The causes of back pain are complex and require careful evaluation and treatment. Unfortunately, the recommended therapy is not always successful. If the injections do not relieve your pain, you may be referred for further evaluation and therapy.

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