Spine Injections

Spine injections are a dependable option for managing various types of neck and back pain. These procedures are available to many patients because they provide two primary benefits: they assist providers in diagnosing the exact origin of the pain and offer direct symptomatic relief. To maximize recovery and help strengthen the spine after an injury, these injections are often utilized in conjunction with a physical therapy program.

What are Spine Injections?

Typically, a spine injection is carried out as a two-stage process. First, the provider administers a local anesthetic—a numbing agent—into the joint area at the specific level of the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) where the issue is located. Once the area is numbed, a second medication is injected specifically to block pain signals and reduce discomfort.

Who Should Have Spine Injections?

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide spine injections to a diverse range of patients seeking relief from pain in any region of the spine, including the neck, upper back, or lower back. These injections are generally most effective for patients whose pain is driven by inflammation rather than a structural underlying cause.

How Well Do Spine Injections Work?

The results vary by individual, but many patients experience relief that lasts for several months or longer, which can often delay or entirely eliminate the need for surgical intervention. However, some patients may find that injections do not provide a sufficient level of pain management. In those instances, our team will work with you to explore alternative treatments or discuss if surgery is a necessary next step.

What Can I Expect When I Have Spine Injections?

The procedure is outpatient, meaning you will not need to stay overnight. Because a local anesthetic is used, recovery requirements are minimal.

Please keep the following logistics in mind: * Transportation: You will be required to have an adult accompany you to drive you home after the procedure. * Timing: The entire visit, from check-in to discharge, typically takes approximately 90 minutes. * Post-Procedure Care: It is common to experience slight swelling or mild soreness around the injection site(s) following the treatment. To manage this, you can use ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers for a few days.

If you have specific questions regarding your care, please consult with your nurse or healthcare provider.