I have had several ESI's in the lumbar region and cervical area. I am going in tomorrow for a selective nerve block. This will help them to find the area that is causing the pain and whether it is nerve related or not.

Don't be nervous about the procedure as it really is not that bad. I was told not to eat or drink two hours before the procedure and to have a ride home.

I will share how mine have been and hope that will put you at ease. I think it helps to know what is going to happen beforehand. When I arrive they take me back and have me change into a gown but I get to keep my pants on. So wear something stretchy and comfortable. I wear jogging pants. Then they put an IV in and the nurse will ask what medicine you are taking and check blood pressure.

Then when it is your turn a nurse will walk you into the procedure room and you will lay on the table and try to get comfortable. They will probably give you something in your IV to relax you but you will still be awake.

Next the doc will give you small shots to numb the area. They sting but are really not bad at all. Then the doc will inject the numbing medication/ steroid combo in your back. It doesn't take long and only once did it feel like I felt it down my leg. Even that was not bad.

Then they roll you on another bed and take you to recovery and they give us juice and a banana while continuing to monitor blood pressure and stuff. Then the doc will come ask if the pain is relieved at all and will talk to you.

After that you get dressed, they walk you or you sit in a wheel chair depending on if you are able to walk. (I was always able to) and they take you to your vehicle for your ride home.

You may be sore afterwards although I usually feel pretty good. You can aslo expect some extra soreness they next day but I usually just ice the area and it feels better. When you see the doc, usually a week or two later tell them what improvements you feel if any. I hope this helps to relieve some anxiety. I was worried sick with my first one and I made it so much worse in my mind than what it actually was....Sue