After a lumbar epidural injection, you don’t need to stay in bed when you get home. In fact, it’s best to walk around if you feel up to it. Just be careful about being too active. Even if you feel better right away, don't do activities that may strain your back. And follow up on all treatment with your healthcare provider.
What to know about pain relief
Keep in mind that some people may feel more pain at first. It often goes away in a few days. You may also have headaches or trouble sleeping. But if these symptoms are bad, call your healthcare provider right away. These should also go away in a few days. In general:
-
An injection to reduce inflammation takes a few days to work, sometimes even up to 1 week. There may even be more pain at first.
-
An injection to help find the source of pain may give only brief pain relief. Later, you’ll feel the same as you did before the injection.
Tips for recovery
Whether you were injected for pain relief or diagnosis, these tips will help you recover:
-
Take walks when you feel up to it.
-
Rest if needed. But get up and move around after sitting for half an hour.
-
Don’t exercise vigorously.
-
Don’t drive the day of the procedure or until your healthcare provider says it’s OK.
-
Return to work or other activities when your healthcare provider says you’re ready.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
-
Severe pain or headache
-
Loss of bladder or bowel control
-
Fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your provider
-
Chills
-
Redness or swelling around the injection site
Online Medical Reviewer: Jimmy Moe MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Maryann Foley RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD
Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Need Help? We're Here for You
Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.
800-510-9132
Call NC Quitline
Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:
800-784-8669
Schedule Transportation
Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.
800-510-9132
Provider Directory
Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist?
Provider DirectoryRelated Articles
Discharge Instructions for Knee Arthroscopy
Information on how to care for yourself after knee arthroscopy.
Managing Pain After Amputation Surgery
You may have different types of pain after amputation. Talk with your doctor about your pain to get the best treatment.
Discharge Instructions for Elbow Arthroscopy
Instructions for taking care of yourself after elbow arthroscopy.
Spinal Fusion: Recovery
If you’ve had neck surgery, follow the guidelines below and any other directions you’ve been given.
