SI joint injection how painful is it?

[mkh9]

My doctor was thinking of my getting an SI joint injection, and he said it is very painful. What are your experiences with how painful it was. Did the pain doctor have to give you a physical first and what did they do to you? I have a problem with twisting and bending and am also worried about yet another physical.
thanks,
mkh9

[mkh9]

Yes you are right. The majority of the time things work out. When I got a cortisone injection into my thumb I heard that it was supposed to hurt real badly and I didn't feel it at all. Same thing with a toe operation, thought it would kill me only small amount of pain. So, I'll just do what is necessary. I'm just trying to decide what to do next.
take care,
mkh9

[marycarmel]

Ativan is a benzo (I'm pretty sure.)  It's used to ease people's anxiety.  I've taken it here and there for different things.  When I fly, I usually take it.  Going to divorce court.  Before some procedures I was particularly anxious about.

I'm not sure why your doctor said that.  Maybe he feels like it is.  My experience wasn't bad.  (I also had to have a large pin removed from my hand and the doctor asked if I wanted anything (like Ativan) and I said no.  I was nervous, though.  I got myself all worked up and it was a big nothing.  The NP told me after that a lot of people faint.)  Another time I was having a gynecological procedure done.  A bunch of people told me how bad it was and one friend said she fainted during it.  Again, I had myself a nervous wreck, and when it was over, I had to ask had it even been done.

Getting worried about what might happen only makes things worse.  Ask your doctor to explain the whole procedure and ask if he thinks you need anything for anxiety or pain control.

I'm not sure if getting relief from the procedure means you have an SI joint dysfunction.  I've had injections that I've had relief from and others that I've had no relief from.  Sometimes I think it's about how accurate the doctor is in getting it in the right spot.

[mkh9]

Glad to hear you had a "good" experience. What is Ativan? But that is a good idea if they can give you something to calm you down or whatever. My doctor said it was a really really tough procedure. I think he wants it for diagnostic purposes. So, if you get pain relief does that mean for sure you have SI joint dysfunction?
thanks ,
mkh9