How Long Should You Rest After Epidural Steroid Injection?

At Northstar Joint and Spine, your comfort and recovery are our top priorities. After receiving an epidural steroid injection at our clinic, we generally recommend that you rest for the remainder of the day. On the day of your procedure, please avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise, as this allows your body time to heal and maximizes the effectiveness of your treatment.

You may resume light activities such as walking or gentle movements when you feel ready, but we encourage a gradual return to your normal daily routine over the next day or two. Most patients experience mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site for a few days. Applying an ice pack to the area for 15–20 minutes at a time can help reduce any discomfort.

If you notice significant pain, numbness, weakness, fever, or any unusual symptoms, please contact Northstar Joint and Spine immediately so we can address your concerns.

In most cases, patients are able to return to work and regular activities within 24 to 48 hours after their procedure, depending on how they feel and the guidance provided by their Northstar physician. Your doctor at Northstar Joint and Spine may also give you personalized instructions based on your individual health needs and the reason for your injection. Please follow these instructions carefully for the best possible outcome.

If you have any questions or concerns following your epidural steroid injection, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Northstar Joint and Spine. We are here to support you every step of the way.

After receiving an epidural steroid injection at Northstar Joint and Spine, we recommend that you rest for the remainder of the day. While this procedure is minimally invasive, it’s common to experience temporary numbness, mild weakness, or discomfort in your back or legs. Some patients may also feel drowsy due to mild sedation or the local anesthetic used during the injection.

For your safety, we advise against returning to work immediately after your injection—especially if your job involves physical activity, operating heavy machinery, driving, or making important decisions. You may feel tired or have mild side effects that could impact your safety and performance. If you have an office or sedentary job, your Northstar provider may permit you to return to work the next day, provided you feel well.

Important Reminders:

• Always follow the specific post-procedure instructions provided by your Northstar Joint and Spine physician.

• If you experience severe pain, signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or fever), increased weakness, or any other concerning symptoms, please contact Northstar Joint and Spine immediately.

At Northstar Joint and Spine, your safety is our top priority. After receiving an epidural steroid injection in our clinic, we strongly advise that you do not drive yourself home immediately following the procedure. The injections often include local anesthetics, steroids, and, in some cases, mild sedatives. These medications can temporarily impair your coordination, reaction time, and alertness.

It’s not uncommon to experience side effects such as numbness, weakness, dizziness, or a heavy sensation in your legs for several hours after your injection. For your safety and the safety of others, we recommend that you arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment at Northstar Joint and Spine.

Most patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 12 to 24 hours after their injection, or until they feel completely alert and their strength and sensation have returned to normal. However, recovery times can vary from person to person. Please follow the personalized instructions provided by your Northstar Joint and Spine physician regarding when it is safe for you to resume driving.

If you notice prolonged numbness, weakness, or any unusual symptoms after your injection, contact our office right away before attempting to drive or engage in other activities requiring full physical function.

At Northstar Joint and Spine, our goal is to support your recovery and maximize the benefits of your treatment plan. If you have recently received an epidural steroid injection at our clinic, it’s important to know when and how to safely resume physical therapy.

When to Resume Physical Therapy

Typically, we recommend waiting at least 24 to 48 hours after your injection before returning to physical therapy. This brief rest period allows any initial discomfort, soreness, or numbness from the procedure to resolve and gives your body time to start responding to the medication.

Individualized Guidance

Every patient’s situation is unique. The timing for resuming therapy can depend on your specific diagnosis, the reason for your injection, and your response to the procedure. Before restarting therapy, please speak with your Northstar Joint and Spine provider, who can guide you based on your individual needs.

Modifying Your Therapy Plan

After your injection, you may need to make temporary adjustments to your physical therapy regimen. If you experience increased pain, numbness, or weakness, let your provider and physical therapist know right away. If you are feeling well, gentle stretching and low-impact activities can often be resumed after the initial waiting period. More strenuous exercises should be reintroduced gradually and always under professional supervision.

Communication Is Key

Be sure to inform your provider at Northstar Joint and Spine about your recent injection. This allows your care team to tailor your rehabilitation plan for your safety and best results.

When to Seek Help

If you notice any unusual or worsening symptoms—such as severe pain, fever, or difficulty moving—contact your Northstar Joint and Spine provider immediately. Our team is committed to helping you heal and return to your daily activities safely. If you have any questions about your recovery or next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

After an epidural steroid injection, Dr. Robert J. Nocerini, MD, advises his patients in Plano, TX, to rest for 24 to 48 hours to allow the medication to fully take effect. He emphasizes avoiding heavy lifting, intense exercise, and prolonged sitting or standing during this time. Dr. Nocerini encourages light walking to promote circulation and prevent stiffness, but recommends gradually resuming normal activities as discomfort permits. Following his expert advice on rest and activity can help maximize the injection’s effectiveness and support a smoother recovery process.

Dr. Nocerini also monitors his patients’ progress closely after the injection and is available for follow-up consultations to assess the treatment’s impact. He provides personalized recommendations based on each patient’s condition and how they respond to the injection. His thorough, hands-on approach ensures that patients feel supported throughout their recovery, and he adjusts care plans as needed to enhance results. For more information contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 7704 San Jacinto Pl Suite #200 Plano, TX 75024. We serve patients from Plano TX, Willow Bend TX, Frisco TX, Allen TX, Addison TX, North Dallas TX, and surrounding areas.