Procedure Instructions
Carefully review these guidelines before and after your treatment to ensure a safe, optimal recovery.
Important Medication Notice
If your procedure requires stopping blood thinners (e.g., Coumadin, Plavix, Eliquis, Aspirin), you must obtain clearance from your prescribing cardiologist or primary care physician first. Never stop these medications without direct medical guidance.
Spine Injections & Nerve Blocks
Includes Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI), Facet Joint Injections, and Radiofrequency Ablations.
Pre-Procedure Instructions (Before Your Injection)
- Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything (including water, gum, or mints) for 6 hours prior to your scheduled procedure time if you are receiving sedation.
- Driver Required: You MUST have a responsible adult driver accompany you, remain at the facility, and drive you home. Uber/Lyft or public transit is not permitted unless you have an escort.
- Medications: Take your regular blood pressure, heart, or seizure medications the morning of your procedure with a tiny sip of water.
Post-Procedure Instructions (After Your Injection)
- Activity: Rest for the remainder of the day. Do not drive, operate machinery, or engage in strenuous activities for 24 hours.
- Pain Tracking: You may experience a temporary increase in soreness for 2–3 days as the local anesthetic wears off and before the steroid takes full effect. Use ice packs for 20 minutes at a time.
- Bathing: Do not soak in a bathtub, hot tub, or go swimming for 24 hours. Showers are completely fine.
Regenerative Medicine (PRP Therapy)
Specific guidelines for Platelet-Rich Plasma procedures to maximize healing potential.
Pre-Procedure Instructions (Before PRP)
- Anti-Inflammatories: Strictly stop all NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Celebrex) at least 7 days before your procedure. These medications block the inflammatory response needed for PRP to work.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water (at least 64 oz) the day before and the morning of your treatment. This makes drawing your blood much easier.
Post-Procedure Instructions (After PRP)
- Pain Management: Do NOT use ice packs or anti-inflammatory medications (Advil, Aleve) for at least 2 weeks after treatment. Tylenol may be taken for discomfort as directed.
- Bracing/Splinting: If a brace or sling was provided, wear it continuously for the first 48 hours to protect the injection site.