There are options available to a patient to help ease discomfort and anxiety during the procedure. Most physicians begin the procedure by using a local anesthetic at the injection site. The patient may feel a slight pinch or pressure from the injection of the anesthetic but will experience little to no pain during the transforaminal injection.
Another option to alleviate pain is sedation. The doctor may administer an IV, resulting in the patient being minimally or heavily sedated. This is considered a good option for patients who have heightened anxiety, low pain tolerance, or difficulty remaining still. Speak to your doctor about your pain relief options prior to the procedure. Procedural practices will vary by the patient, the doctor, and the outpatient facility.