I still have spinal pain after spinal tap?

I still have spinal pain after spinal tap?

Hello, I am looking for some advice from professionals that could help me with my questions before I can see my doctor.

I had a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) on the 6th of November, and now it is the 12th of November and I am still experiencing a sore tailbone. It feels pressure-like almost as if I’m still in the procedure and I get zaps of pain that only travel down to as far as my butt. Walking is a little difficult and my pain is managed ok with Tylenol. My question is.. when will this go away?

Laying down feels the worst for it but when I walk it’s the shooting pain (comes and goes). Any ideas? Thank you!

2 Answers

Dr. Laura Schlagel

Neurologist

Ivins, UT

It should be improving by now. There is always the possibility of an infection (abcess) or hematoma after a spinal tap. These can be diagnosed with a lumbar MRI.

Dr. Jayaprakash Gosalakkal

Neurologist

Dayton, OH

Since you seem to have IIH, rapid reduction in CSF pressure and/or leak can lead to intracranial hypotension head and other symptoms. Spinal leak can last hours to weeks. Proposed treatments are IV, caffeine, etc., for headaches and blood patch. I would go to the ER or call your physician now.