@karolyn
Good morning,
The shot is uncomfortable, but for me, I don't feel sedation is necessary. Let's face it, everyone has a different pain tolerance. I also know adults who are so terrified of any kind of injection that they yell just seeing the needle.
I have no fear of shots and I am able to remain very still during this 10 to 15 minute procedure .
Like I said, it is not painless, but I tolerate it easily and I dislike any sedation more!
The doctor does use a very fine needle and numbs the area first. I do feel the meds going through my system. That is actually the most uncomfortable spot, not the injection itself. The discomfort lasted me about 15 minutes or so after the procedure is done.
As for surgery? Yes. After many years of injections and other interventions, I opted for surgery. Nothing was working. I had SEVERE headaches and issues with my arms, hands and neck. At the end of this past February, I had C5/6 replaced with artificial discs. The surgery was done through my neck as an out patient. I healed quickly and I was done with pain meds in a couple of days.
12 weeks ago today, I had a 2nd surgery on L3/4. I had an X-lift fusion. Not sure what it means but yhey went through my left side.
I will be honest that this has been a VERY LONG and DIFFICULT recovery. It has been very painful!! 12 weeks later and I still don't feel myself. I really don't know if it is the surgery or something else that has begun to act up. I am full of osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia so that be impacting how I feel.
Anyway, hope this helps...
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)