We look forward to seeing you for your injection/procedure at Sweetwater Pain & Spine! We are committed to providing you with the highest quality care and utilize various procedures to reduce or eliminate your pain.
Here is some important information to help you prepare for your upcoming visit:
Understanding Your Injection:
- Palpation-Guided Injections: These are performed by feeling the anatomical landmarks to guide the injection.
- Ultrasound-Guided Injections: These use ultrasound imaging to visualize the area and ensure precise needle placement.
- Fluoroscopic Injections: These involve the use of X-ray guidance to accurately position the needle and deliver medication to the targeted area.
For information on specific procedures:
Before Your Appointment:
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. In rare instances you may need to change into a gown for a procedure.
- Medications: Inform our team about all medications you are currently taking. You may need to adjust or stop certain medications before your injection (especially blood thinners).
- Allergies: Notify us of any allergies, especially to medications, latex, or contrast dyes.
- Medical History: Provide a complete medical history, including any recent illnesses or infections (Note: procedures cannot be performed if you have an unresolved, active infection).
- Diet: Generally, you can continue your usual eating and drinking habits unless instructed otherwise.
Day of the Procedure:
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
- Bring a list of your current medications and any relevant medical records.
- Most injections take anywhere from 5-30 minutes to complete, depending on the procedure.
- The doctor will walk you through the procedure step by step, answering any questions that arise in the process.
- You will need a driver to take you home if you are undergoing a spinal injection or more involved procedure; our scheduling team will advise you whether this is necessary.

After the Injection:
- Follow any post-procedure specific instructions provided by your doctor. However, you can resume regular activity within 24 hours for the majority of our procedures.
- Monitor the injection site for any signs of infection or adverse reactions.
- If you experience post-procedure soreness, apply ice for 20 minutes each hour as needed and avoid heat for the first 48 hours.
- Avoid any soaking for 48 hours, including bathtubs, hot tubs, pools, or lakes. You can shower immediately.
- Contact our office if you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns after your procedure.
We aim to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.