3 Best Positions to Sleep After an Epidural

You’ve taken a big step toward relief with an epidural steroid injection. Now, let’s make sure your recovery is as smooth as possible. Why does your sleeping position matter so much? It’s about more than just comfort. The way you sleep directly impacts the pressure on your spine, which can either help your recovery or work against it. A supportive posture allows the anti-inflammatory medication to work effectively, reducing strain on the injection site. An unsupportive one can lead to more stiffness and discomfort. We’ll show you the best position to sleep after an epidural to protect your back and get the most out of your treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize a Neutral Spine: Your main goal is to keep your back straight to protect the injection area. The easiest way to do this is by sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees or on your side with one placed between them.
• Temporarily Ditch Stomach Sleeping: This position puts significant strain on your back and neck, which can counteract the injection’s benefits. For the first several days, commit to sleeping on your back or side to give your body the best environment to heal.
• Create a Calm Environment for Healing: Your surroundings matter just as much as your position. Manage any post-injection soreness with an ice pack before bed, keep your room cool and dark, and establish a relaxing routine to help your body get the restorative rest it needs.

Getting an Epidural Steroid Injection? What to Expect

If you’re dealing with persistent pain from conditions like a herniated disc or sciatica, an epidural steroid injection might be part of your treatment plan. It sounds technical, but the concept is straightforward. This procedure is one of the most common tools we use to manage pain that starts in the spine. Understanding what it is, why it helps, and what to expect afterward can make the process feel much more manageable. Think of this as your quick-start guide to the procedure and the recovery that follows, helping you prepare for the relief you need.

What is an epidural steroid injection?

Let’s break down what an epidural steroid injection actually is. It’s a minimally invasive procedure designed to deliver medication directly to the source of your pain. The injection contains a corticosteroid, which is a strong anti-inflammatory medication. We administer it into the epidural space—the area surrounding your spinal cord and nerves. When nerves in your spine become compressed and inflamed, they send pain signals throughout your back, neck, or limbs. By placing the medication right where the inflammation is happening, we can reduce swelling and pressure on the nerves, which in turn calms down the pain.

Why is this procedure recommended?

The main goal of an epidural steroid injection is to provide enough pain relief to help you get back to your life. For many people, the pain from conditions like sciatica or spinal stenosis is so intense that it makes daily activities difficult, if not impossible. The injection works to break that cycle of pain and inflammation. By reducing your pain, it creates a valuable window of opportunity for you to participate more effectively in physical therapy or other rehabilitative exercises. This makes it a key part of a comprehensive treatment plan, helping you build strength and flexibility for more lasting relief.

What to expect during your recovery

After your injection, it’s normal to feel some temporary numbness or weakness in your back or legs for a few hours. The injection site might also be a bit sore. It’s important to take it easy for the rest of the day, so plan on having someone drive you home. For the first 24 hours, you should avoid any heavy lifting, strenuous activity, or driving. The full effects of the steroid can take a few days to kick in, so be patient. Most people can return to their normal routine within a week, but always follow the specific instructions our team provides. You can find more resources in our Patient Center to help guide you.

The First 24-48 Hours

The first couple of days after your procedure are all about taking it easy and giving your body a chance to heal. You can expect some soreness at the injection site, and it’s common to feel temporary numbness or a bit of weakness in your back or legs for a few hours. This is why having someone drive you home is so important. For the first 24 hours, your main job is to rest. Avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and driving. The steroid medication needs a little time to start working its magic, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t feel immediate relief. Patience is key as the anti-inflammatory effects build over the next few days.

Getting Out of Bed Safely: The Log Roll Technique

How you move matters, especially when getting out of bed. Twisting your spine can put unnecessary stress on the injection area, so we recommend using the “log roll” technique. It’s a simple way to keep your spine stable and protected. To do it, start by lying on your back and bending your knees. Then, roll onto your side, keeping your shoulders and hips aligned as one unit—just like a log. From there, use your arms to push your upper body up while you swing both legs over the side of the bed at the same time. This method helps you avoid straining your back and supports a smoother recovery.

What’s the Best Position to Sleep in After an Epidural?

Getting a good night’s sleep after a procedure is a huge part of your recovery, but finding a comfortable position can feel like a puzzle. The goal is to rest in a way that supports your spine and protects the injection site, allowing the medication from your epidural steroid injection to do its work effectively. The wrong position can add stress to your back and neck, leading to discomfort that disrupts your sleep and slows down healing. When you toss and turn, you risk irritating the treated area, which can undermine the benefits of the injection.

Fortunately, you don’t need to become a sleep contortionist to get it right. A few simple adjustments can make a world of difference. The key is to maintain a neutral spine, which means keeping your head, neck, and back in a straight line. This minimizes pressure on the nerves and muscles around the injection area, giving your body the best possible environment to heal. We’ll walk through the best positions to try and how a few strategically placed pillows can become your best friends during recovery. Finding what works for your body will help you rest easier and get back to feeling your best.

Sleep on Your Back With Your Knees Supported

For many people, sleeping on the back is the gold standard after an injection. This position evenly distributes your weight and helps maintain the natural curve of your spine. To make it even more comfortable and effective, slide a pillow under your knees. This small adjustment is a game-changer—it slightly elevates your legs, which releases tension in your lower back and reduces pressure on the spine. It’s a simple way to support the area and prevent the kind of strain that can lead to morning stiffness or pain. If you’re dealing with chronic back pain, this position can provide significant relief.

Sleep on Your Side With a Pillow Between Your Knees

If you’re a dedicated side sleeper, don’t worry—you don’t have to force yourself to sleep on your back. Sleeping on your side can also be a great option, as long as you do it correctly. The trick is to place a firm pillow between your knees and thighs. This keeps your top leg from sliding forward and twisting your spine out of alignment. By supporting your hips and pelvis, the pillow ensures your spine stays in a straight, neutral line from your neck down to your lower back. This position is particularly helpful for relieving pressure on the hips and can be very comfortable for those with sciatica pain.

Try a Reclined Position

If lying flat in bed feels uncomfortable, you might find relief in a reclined position. For the first few nights after your procedure, sleeping at a slight incline can be incredibly beneficial. This angle helps to take pressure off your spine in a way that lying flat sometimes can’t, especially if you’re dealing with soreness at the injection site. It provides a stable, supportive posture that minimizes movement and allows your back to rest in a neutral position. Think of it as giving your spine a break from gravity while you sleep, creating the perfect environment for the anti-inflammatory medication to work its magic.

Using a Recliner Chair or Adjustable Bed

If you have one, a recliner chair or an adjustable bed can be your best friend during recovery. These are designed to put you in an ideal zero-gravity-like position that takes the load off your spine, hips, and knees. This gentle recline helps keep the injection site still, preventing accidental twists or turns during the night that could cause irritation. By supporting your body in this way, you can reduce muscle tension and allow the area treated by the epidural steroid injection to heal without added stress. It’s a simple and effective way to ensure you get restorative rest.

Sleeping with Your Head and Upper Body Raised

Don’t have a recliner? You can create a similar effect in your own bed using a wedge pillow or a few sturdy pillows stacked together. Elevating your head and upper body slightly does more than just feel comfortable. This position can help reduce swelling, make breathing easier, and maintain a straight spine, which lessens the strain on the nerves in your back and neck. It’s an excellent option for anyone who finds lying flat puts too much pressure on their lower back or for those recovering from a cervical injection for neck pain. This simple setup can make a significant difference in your comfort level.

Matching Your Position to Your Medical Condition

While these sleeping positions are great starting points, the best one for you ultimately depends on your specific condition. The main goal is always to find a posture that takes pressure off the affected nerve and keeps your spine in a straight, neutral line. For example, someone with lumbar spinal stenosis might find the most relief in a fetal position on their side, while someone with a cervical herniated disc may feel better on their back with their head slightly elevated. The key is to listen to your body—if a position causes pain or discomfort, it’s not the right one for you.

This is where personalized medical advice is so important. During your consultation, our team at Kentuckiana Pain Specialists will provide specific recommendations based on your diagnosis and the type of injection you received. We understand that every patient’s experience with pain is unique, and our approach to care reflects that. We’ll guide you on the best ways to support your body during recovery, ensuring you have all the information you need to heal effectively. You can learn more about the comprehensive treatments we offer to create a plan that works for you.

Prioritize Keeping Your Spine Aligned

Ultimately, the best sleeping position is one that keeps your spine neutrally aligned. Whether you’re on your back or your side, the main objective is to avoid any twisting or contorting that could strain the injection area. Think of your spine as a straight line that you want to maintain throughout the night. A slight elevation for your head and proper support for your knees or hips helps achieve this. This focus on alignment reduces tension on your entire musculoskeletal system, allowing your body to heal more efficiently. Proper posture during sleep is a cornerstone of many successful pain management treatments and can make a noticeable difference in your recovery.

How to Arrange Pillows for a Comfortable Recovery

Pillows are more than just a place to rest your head—they’re essential tools for supporting your body as it heals. Using them strategically can make a huge difference in your comfort and recovery speed after an epidural steroid injection. The goal is to keep your spine in a neutral, straight line, from your head down to your hips. This reduces strain on your back, neck, and joints, allowing the treated area to heal without added pressure. Think of it as creating a supportive nest that helps your body relax and recover effectively through the night.

The Ideal Pillow Setup for Back Sleepers

If you sleep on your back, your main goal is to maintain the natural curve of your spine. Placing a small pillow or a rolled-up towel under the small of your back can provide gentle support. Next, slide another pillow under your knees. This simple adjustment helps take the pressure off your lower back, reducing tension and keeping your spine in a healthier position. This setup is especially helpful if you’re dealing with persistent back pain, as it allows your muscles to fully relax while you rest. It might feel a little different at first, but this alignment can significantly improve your sleep quality during recovery.

How to Position Pillows for Side Sleeping

For side sleepers, the key is to prevent your top leg from sliding forward and twisting your spine. To do this, place a firm pillow between your knees. This keeps your hips, pelvis, and spine aligned. This small change can make a world of difference, especially if you experience nerve pain from conditions like sciatica. You might also want to hug a pillow to keep your shoulders from rounding forward. The idea is to create a stable, supported position that prevents your body from falling out of alignment while you sleep, allowing you to rest more deeply without causing extra strain.

Adding Extra Support for Your Waist

Even with pillows correctly placed, you might notice a small gap between the curve of your lower back and the mattress. Filling this space can provide an extra layer of comfort and support. Try sliding a small, thin pillow or a rolled-up hand towel into the small of your back. This simple adjustment helps maintain the natural curve of your lumbar spine, preventing it from flattening out as you rest. By supporting this area, you allow the muscles around your spine to fully relax, which is essential for healing after procedures like an epidural steroid injection. It’s a minor detail that supports the broader goal of your pain management plan: to reduce strain and promote recovery.

How to Properly Support Your Head and Neck

Your head and neck pillow is just as important as the pillows supporting your body. Choose a pillow that fills the space between your neck and the mattress, keeping your head in line with your spine. If your pillow is too high or too low, it can create an awkward angle and lead to stiffness or neck pain. Avoid curling into a tight fetal position, as this can round your spine and add unnecessary strain. Your head shouldn’t be tilted up or down but should rest in a neutral position, continuing the straight line from your back.

Choosing the Right Pillow and Mattress

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the perfect pillow or mattress—it’s all about what feels best for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try pillows with different firmness levels and materials, like memory foam or down alternatives, to see what provides the right support. Sometimes, even a folded towel can offer the perfect amount of lift. Your mattress should also be supportive enough to prevent sagging but comfortable enough to cushion your joints. Finding the right combination is a key part of your personalized pain management plan and can make your recovery much smoother.

Consider a Mattress Topper for Added Comfort

If your mattress isn’t providing the right balance of comfort and support, but you’re not ready to invest in a new one, a mattress topper can be an excellent solution. A good topper can transform your sleeping surface by adding a layer of cushioning to a firm mattress or providing extra support if yours is too soft. This is especially helpful after an injection, as it helps cushion sensitive areas and reduce pressure on your joints. The goal is to create a surface that supports neutral spinal alignment, allowing your body to fully relax and heal. Whether you choose memory foam for its contouring properties or latex for a more responsive feel, this simple addition can significantly improve your sleep quality and be a valuable part of your overall pain management strategy.

Sleeping Positions to Avoid After an Epidural

Just as important as finding the right sleeping position is knowing which ones to avoid. The goal is to protect your spine and give the injection the best possible chance to work its magic. Certain positions can add stress to your back, increase inflammation, and slow down your recovery. By steering clear of a few common sleep habits, you can prevent unnecessary discomfort and help your body heal more effectively. Let’s walk through the key positions to avoid while you recover.

Why You Should Avoid Stomach Sleeping

If you’re a stomach sleeper, this one might be tough, but it’s crucial for your recovery. Sleeping on your stomach puts significant strain on your lower back by flattening its natural curve. This position can also force your head and neck to be twisted to one side for hours, which creates a whole new set of alignment problems. After receiving an epidural steroid injection, the last thing you want is to add more pressure to your spine. This position can counteract the anti-inflammatory effects of the medication and may even worsen your pain. Making a temporary switch to sleeping on your back or side will give your body the neutral, supported rest it needs to heal properly.

Say No to Positions That Twist Your Spine

Maintaining a neutral spine is your top priority after an injection. Any sleeping position that causes your back to twist or rotate should be avoided. This often happens unintentionally when sleeping on your side. If you don’t place a pillow between your knees, your top leg can easily slide forward, pulling on your pelvis and twisting your lower spine. This rotation can irritate the injection site and the surrounding nerves, which is especially problematic if you’re dealing with conditions like sciatica. The key is to keep your hips, pelvis, and spine aligned in a straight line. Resisting the urge to curl up or twist will help reduce pressure and allow the treated area to recover without added stress.

A Note on the Fetal Position

While the fetal position is a go-to for comfort for many of us, it’s one you’ll want to be mindful of after your injection. Curling up too tightly can cause your spine to round and twist, which puts unnecessary pressure on the treated area. This position can easily pull your spine out of its neutral alignment, potentially working against the anti-inflammatory medication and leading to more stiffness. The goal is to reduce strain, not add to it, so avoiding a tight curl is key to letting your body heal without interference.

This doesn’t mean you have to abandon side sleeping. You can easily modify the position to make it work for your recovery. Simply place a firm pillow between your knees to keep your hips and pelvis aligned, which prevents your lower back from twisting. This small adjustment makes a huge difference in maintaining a straight line from your head down to your hips. A supportive pillow for your head is also crucial to prevent any awkward angles that could lead to neck pain. By focusing on alignment, you create the ideal environment for a restful night and a smoother recovery.

Common Sleep Mistakes That Cause Discomfort

A couple of other common sleep habits can accidentally cause more discomfort after your procedure. First, avoid curling up into a tight fetal position. While it might feel cozy, pulling your knees up too high can round your lower back and strain your spine. A looser side-sleeping position with a pillow between your knees is a much better alternative. Another mistake is sleeping completely flat on your back without any support. This can sometimes increase pressure on the injection site. Instead, try placing a pillow under your knees to maintain a slight bend, which helps take the pressure off your lower back. These small adjustments can make a huge difference in managing post-procedure back pain and ensuring a restful night.

How to Create a Sleep-Friendly Recovery Zone

Finding the right sleeping position is a great first step, but creating a peaceful environment is what really sets you up for a night of restorative rest. Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for healing, especially after a procedure like an epidural steroid injection. A few thoughtful adjustments to your space and routine can make a world of difference in your comfort and recovery. Think of it as fine-tuning your sleep setup to give your body the best possible chance to heal effectively.

Dealing With Steroid-Related Sleep Issues

It’s not uncommon for the steroids in your injection to give you a temporary energy jolt or make it feel harder to wind down at night. If you feel a bit restless, don’t worry—this is a known side effect and usually fades within a day or two. To counter this, try cutting out caffeine, especially after lunchtime. Instead of an evening coffee or soda, opt for a calming, caffeine-free herbal tea. Building in some extra time to relax before bed can also help signal to your body that it’s time for sleep. These simple steps can help you manage the temporary effects of your pain management treatment and get the rest you need.

Try Heat or Cold Therapy Before Bed

You might feel some tenderness at the injection site, which is completely normal. To ease this discomfort before you settle in for the night, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to the area for about 15 to 20 minutes. The cold helps reduce inflammation and provides a gentle numbing effect that can make it easier to get comfortable. One important tip: avoid using a heating pad on the area for the first 72 hours after your injection, as heat can sometimes increase inflammation during this initial healing period. Sticking with cold therapy is your best bet for managing soreness from back pain or neck pain after the procedure.

Stay Hydrated

Don’t underestimate the power of drinking water after your procedure. Staying well-hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective things you can do to support your body’s healing process. Water helps flush out toxins, maintain good circulation, and deliver nutrients to the treated area, all of which are essential for a smooth recovery. It can also help you avoid or lessen common side effects, like the headaches that can sometimes follow an epidural steroid injection. Make it a point to keep a water bottle nearby and sip consistently throughout the day. This small habit plays a big role in helping you get the most out of your treatment and feel better faster.

Set the Right Temperature and Lighting

Your environment plays a huge role in sleep quality. A cool, dark, and quiet room is the ideal setting for uninterrupted rest. Try setting your thermostat to a comfortable, slightly cool temperature, as this helps your body’s internal clock prepare for sleep. Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask to block out any disruptive light from windows or electronics. If noise is an issue, a white noise machine or a simple fan can help drown out sounds that might otherwise wake you. Creating this calm space helps minimize distractions, allowing your body to focus on healing. You can find more helpful resources in our Patient Center.

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine is a powerful tool for preparing your mind and body for sleep. About 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to turn in, switch off the TV and put away your phone. Instead, engage in calming activities that help you de-stress. You could read a chapter of a book, listen to a soothing playlist or podcast, or practice some gentle stretches—as long as they feel comfortable and are approved by your doctor. Simple deep breathing exercises or a short guided meditation can also work wonders to quiet a busy mind. This ritual helps ease the transition into sleep, making it easier to drift off peacefully.

How Long Should You Follow These Sleep Tips?

So, you’ve found a comfortable, spine-friendly sleeping position—how long do you need to stick with it? The good news is, these adjustments aren’t permanent. The primary goal is to give your body the best chance to heal by reducing pressure and inflammation at the injection site. While everyone’s recovery journey is a little different, there are some general guidelines you can follow.

Typically, you should plan on maintaining your new sleeping position for about three to five days after your epidural steroid injection. This window allows the initial swelling to go down and gives the medication time to start working effectively. Think of it as creating a calm, stable environment for your back to heal. After this initial period, you can start thinking about gradually returning to your old habits. The key is to move slowly and pay close attention to how your body responds. Your comfort is the most important indicator, and we’ll walk through exactly what to look for as you transition back to your normal routine.

Understanding Your Recovery Timeline

Your recovery starts the moment you get home. For the first one to two days, your main job is to rest as much as possible. Don’t be afraid to use an ice pack on the injection site for 15-20 minutes at a time to help manage any soreness or swelling. After a couple of days, you can slowly begin to reintroduce light activities, but avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Most people find they can return to their normal daily life after about a week. Throughout this time, continue using the supportive sleeping positions we’ve discussed to protect your spine and get the quality rest you need to heal properly.

Guidance on Resuming Exercise

It’s natural to wonder when you can get back to your exercise routine. For the first 24 to 48 hours, your main job is to rest and avoid strenuous activities, which gives the medication time to settle in and start working. After that initial rest period, you can begin to gradually reintroduce light activities like gentle walking or stretching. Most people can return to their normal exercise habits within a few days to a week, but the most important rule is to listen to your body. This careful, phased approach is a vital part of many successful pain management treatments. If you feel any increased pain, numbness, or new symptoms as you move more, stop what you’re doing and give our team a call.

How to Ease Back Into Your Usual Sleep Habits

When you feel ready to try your old sleeping position again, the key is to take it slow. Don’t just switch back for the entire night right away. Instead, try starting the night in your usual position and see how it feels. If you wake up with any discomfort or pain, gently move back into one of the recommended supportive positions. If lying completely flat still feels uncomfortable, sleeping in a reclined position can be a great intermediate step. Be patient and gentle with yourself during this process. Your body has been through a lot, and easing back into your routine is the safest way to avoid setbacks.

Listen to Your Body: When to Switch Positions

Your body is your best guide during recovery. So, how do you know when it’s time to change positions? Pay attention to the signals it sends. If you notice that the soreness around the injection site has significantly decreased, that’s a great sign. You might also find that you’re experiencing less general back pain or hip discomfort when lying down. Ultimately, if you simply feel ready to try a different position and it doesn’t cause any new or worsening pain, it’s likely safe to do so. If a position causes discomfort, that’s your body’s way of saying, “not yet.” Trust those signals and adjust accordingly.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Your recovery is our top priority, and a big part of that is knowing what to expect and when to reach out. While most people recover smoothly after an epidural steroid injection, it’s smart to be aware of your body’s signals. Here’s what to watch for and when to give our office a call.

Red Flags: Warning Signs to Look For

Your body is the best expert on how you’re feeling, so it’s important to listen to it after your procedure. While some temporary soreness is normal, certain symptoms need our immediate attention. Please contact our office right away if you experience severe pain that doesn’t get better, or signs of infection like a fever or redness and swelling at the injection site. You should also call us immediately if you notice any new or worsening numbness, weakness, or have any trouble with bladder or bowel control. These signs are rare, but they are critical, and we need to know about them as soon as possible.

Understanding the Risk of Spinal Headaches

While it’s not common, one potential side effect you should know about is a spinal headache. This isn’t your average tension headache. A spinal headache is typically severe and has a distinct positional nature—it gets much worse when you sit or stand up and feels significantly better when you lie down flat. This can happen if the needle accidentally punctures the membrane covering the spinal cord, causing a small leak of spinal fluid. If you develop a severe headache like this after your procedure, don’t try to tough it out. It’s important to call our office. We can assess your symptoms and, if needed, discuss effective treatments to resolve it.

Other Common Side Effects

Beyond the more serious concerns, there are a few common and mild side effects you might notice as you recover. It’s very normal to have some mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two, similar to how your arm feels after a flu shot. An ice pack can help with this. You might also feel a bit flushed or warm, or have some trouble sleeping for a night—this is a temporary reaction to the steroid medication. Some people also experience temporary numbness or a feeling of weakness in their back or legs for a few hours right after the injection. These effects are usually short-lived and are a normal part of the healing process.

Understanding Your Follow-Up Care

We’re partners in your pain management journey, and that partnership continues well after your injection. We’ll provide you with specific post-procedure instructions, but a good rule of thumb is to monitor your progress over the first week. If you don’t feel any improvement in your pain levels after seven days, please give us a call. We can discuss the next steps in your pain management treatment plan, which might include scheduling another injection or having you come in for a follow-up visit. Your feedback is essential for us to tailor your care and get you the best possible results.

Keeping a Pain Journal to Track Progress

One of the most effective ways to partner with us in your recovery is by keeping a simple pain journal. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few notes each day can provide a wealth of information. Jot down your pain level on a scale of 1 to 10, what activities you did, and how well you slept. This log helps you see patterns and track how your body is responding to the epidural steroid injection. When you come in for a follow-up, this journal becomes an invaluable tool. Instead of trying to remember how you felt last Tuesday, you’ll have clear, specific details to share, which helps us fine-tune your pain management plan and ensure you’re on the right path to relief.

What to Do if Your Sleep Problems Continue

Even with the perfect pillow setup, you might still have some trouble sleeping as your body heals. If you find that discomfort is keeping you up at night, try making small adjustments to your sleeping position. Sometimes shifting a pillow or trying a reclined position can make all the difference. The most important thing is to listen to your body and avoid anything that causes pain. If your sleep issues don’t improve or you have questions about your recovery from back pain, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can offer personalized advice to help you rest comfortably and get back on your feet.

Related Articles

• Epidural Steroid Injection – Kentuckiana Pain Specialists
• Cervical Spine Pain? It Could Be Facet Syndrome
• Sacroiliac Joint Injection – Kentuckiana Pain Specialists
• Cervical Facet Joint Injection – Kentuckiana Pain Specialists

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon will I know if the injection worked? While some people feel relief within 24 hours, it’s more common for the steroid to take a few days to start working. The full anti-inflammatory effect can take up to a week to kick in, so it’s important to be patient during this initial period. The goal is a significant reduction in your pain, which we typically evaluate about a week or two after the procedure.

Is it normal for my pain to feel a little worse right after the procedure? Yes, it can be. Some patients experience a temporary increase in pain for a day or two after the injection. This is sometimes called a “steroid flare” and happens as your body reacts to the medication. It can also be due to the pressure from the fluid itself. This is usually mild and should resolve on its own within 48 hours. Using an ice pack on the area can help manage this temporary discomfort.

What if I’m a stomach sleeper and just can’t get comfortable on my back or side? We know that changing a lifelong sleep habit is difficult. If you absolutely cannot get comfortable, try to at least start the night on your back or side, using pillows to create a supportive nest. Even a few hours in a better position can make a difference. Another option is to sleep in a recliner for the first few nights, as this keeps your spine in a supported, neutral position without putting direct pressure on your back.

Can I use a heating pad for the soreness at the injection site? You should avoid using heat on the injection site for the first 72 hours. Heat can increase blood flow and inflammation, which is the opposite of what we want right after the procedure. Instead, stick with cold therapy. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes at a time is the best way to reduce swelling and numb any soreness.

How long will the pain relief from the injection last? The duration of relief is different for everyone and depends on your specific condition. For some, it can last for several months, while for others, it may be shorter. The primary goal of the injection is to provide a window of reduced pain so you can more effectively participate in physical therapy and other rehabilitative exercises. This combination of treatment is what helps create more lasting results.