Recovery Time for Epidural Injection in Neck for a Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is when the gel-type substance in the disc bulges or ruptures through a weakened portion of the surrounding wall, resulting in pain, swelling and irritation when the gel contacts a spinal nerve. An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive procedure that can bring pain relief for as little as several days to as long as a number of years. Patients are usually up and walking around immediately after the procedure.

Function

• The area surrounding the spinal nerves is the epidural space. By injecting anti-inflammatory medicine into the epidural space, the nerve inflammation should stop or be improved, and pain should abate, at least temporarily.

Time Frame

• The procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and the patient is watched for up to an hour after the injection before being discharged. Immediately after the procedure, pain may increase as the numbing agent wears off but the cortisone has yet to kick in. It may take several days for the anti-inflammatory medication to work.

Post-Procedure

• Once home, patients should rest and avoid any strenuous activity or driving for the rest of that day. Normal activities are typically resumed the next day.

Follow-Up

• The doctor may want to follow up with the patient in seven to 10 days to ask about any symptoms and to inquire about the level of pain relief obtained.

Considerations

• Patients may want to start their regular activities in moderation. Even if the pain has improved significantly, it may be best to gradually increase activities over one to two weeks to avoid reoccurrence of pain.