Hi coyote...
I agree with Bobbi 100%!!
Yesterday, I had the 2nd in a series of 3 steroid injections. It was without sedation, and not really all that bad. The injections themselves aren't a very comfortable procedure, no matter what, but the benefit is usually worth it! IMHO...

Most of the injections I've had were under sedation, and like Bobbi said, it does relax you! That would be my preference, if it were available with my doc, but he prefers not to use sedation. His thoughts on this are that it is better to be uncomfortable for a few minutes and not mess up your whole day by being sedated, as well as not remembering the rest of your day. I can understand his thinking, based on my past experience, and response to the Versed. It wasn't bad, but did have some side effects that, in my case, impaired me for the better part of the day.

The doctor doing this set of injections is new to me. I just moved, and having to set up all new doctors...ugh!!
You mentioned lidocaine at the injection site....that has always been part of the procedure, with all of the different doctors I've had. It is like getting a shot of novacaine from the dentist.

Yesterday, a nurse helped me onto a gurney, and was laid on my stomach, with a pillow under my waist/hips. The nurse lowered the waist of my shorts, and cleaned the injection site (lumbar spine this time) with betadine. She aligned the x-ray arm with the injection site, and made sure it was visible on the screen. Then doc comes in and administered the shot, which took all of 5 minutes today. I've had some that took alot longer. Usually, I have been in and out of there in less than an hour. There are so many different variables that I wouldn't try and predict how long it takes to get the injection. With this one I had to wait for 15 min. after it was done before I could leave. This clinic puts you in a kitchenette, with snack crackers, juice and coffee. I came home and laid down for rest and a nap.

This was my experience yesterday. Every doctor is different, so it would be hard to say if he is able to give the shot with minimal pain, while having no sedation. If sedation is an option, I would recommend it. If it isn't, you could say no to the injection, or grin and 'bare' it for a few minutes of discomfort. I do recommend spending most of the first day or two off your feet as much as possible. Just rest and let the meds do their stuff!

I hope things go really smooth, and that it is a good experience for you! After a series of three shots, I've had good pain relief every time. The coverage lasted as little as 2 weeks, while others lasted 4 months. For me, the injections do help! Like Bobbie said, "Just take it easy afterward, and let your body tell you how you feel."

Mcdom57....I'm sorry to hear of your bad experience, and can sympathize! I hope your pain is under better control now!

Best wishes to you both!
~Kimmy