Details.
A diagnostic procedure involving local anaesthetic injected onto the nerves of the sacro-iliac joints to determine whether these joints are causing lower back pain. The procedure includes light sedation, local anaesthetic, mobile x-ray guidance and approximately 1 hour of observation afterwards. Patients should stop taking pain medication around 5 to 6 hours beforehand, avoid other medical procedures within 48 hours, arrange transport and avoid driving for 24 hours after the procedure. A pain diary is usually maintained for around a week afterwards.