Epidural and Facet Joint Injections
Requirements for Epidural? Injections:
- Patient must have an MRI of the lumbar spine within one year of injection. ? We must have MRI images prior to injection.
- MRI and injection may be scheduled the same day.
- Plain films are also recommended.
- If on Coumadin or blood thinners, stop 5 days prior to injection. Patients may resume Coumadin or blood thinners the day after the injection.
- Patients can continue taking aspirin.
- Patients receiving epidural injections must have a driver.
- Three days of rest is recommended after the injection, injections are less effective otherwise.
- Patients may receive up to 4 injections per year, allow at least 2 weeks between injections.
Requirements for Joint Injection:
- Recent plain film (within a year)
- If on Coumadin or blood thinners, stop 5 days prior to injection. Patients may resume Coumadin or blood thinners the same day after injection.
- Patients can continue taking asprin.
- Three days of rest recommended after the injection, injections are less effective otherwise.
- Patients may receive up to 4 injections per year,? allow at least 2 weeks between injections.