If you’re considering ozone therapy for your herniated disc or chronic back pain, you probably have questions about what the procedure involves. As someone who’s been told you might need surgery, the idea of a minimally invasive alternative sounds appealing. But what actually happens during the treatment?
At Dr. A Disc Care, we believe informed patients make the best decisions. Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide to what you can expect before, during, and after intradiscal ozone therapy.
Before Your Procedure
CONSULTATION (1-2 WEEKS BEFORE)
Your first visit involves a thorough evaluation. Dr. A will personally review your MRI, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. This isn’t a quick 10-minute appointment — expect to spend 30-45 minutes discussing your condition and treatment options.
We’ll determine:
- If you’re a good candidate
- Which treatments are best for your specific condition
- What realistic expectations you should have
- The complete cost and payment options
PRE-PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS:
- Eat a light meal 2 hours before (don’t come on empty stomach)
- Stop blood thinners 3-7 days before (per Dr. A’s instructions)
- Arrange for someone to drive you home
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Bring your current medications list
Day of Procedure: Step-by-Step
ARRIVAL & PREP (15 MINUTES)
You’ll arrive about 30 minutes before your scheduled procedure. After checking in, you’ll change into a gown and complete any remaining paperwork. A staff member will review your consent form and answer last-minute questions.
POSITIONING (5 MINUTES)
You’ll lie face-down on a specialized fluoroscopy table. The C-arm (X-ray machine) will be positioned over your lower back. Don’t worry — you’ll only receive minimal radiation, equivalent to a few X-rays.
NUMBING (10 MINUTES)
Dr. A will clean and sterilize your skin, then inject local anesthetic into the treatment area. You’ll feel a small pinch and slight burning as the numbing medicine goes in — similar to getting a dental filling. Within minutes, the area becomes completely numb.
THE INJECTION (15-20 MINUTES)
Using real-time X-ray guidance, Dr. A advances a thin needle to the exact location of your damaged disc. You may feel pressure as the needle approaches the disc, but no sharp pain. Once in perfect position, the ozone-oxygen mixture is slowly injected.
WHAT YOU’LL FEEL:
- Mild pressure or fullness as the ozone goes in
- Possibly a temporary increase in your familiar pain (this is normal)
- No sharp, severe pain (tell Dr. A if you feel this)
RECOVERY ROOM (15-30 MINUTES)
After the injection, you’ll rest briefly while staff monitors your vital signs. Most patients feel well enough to get dressed and go home within 15-30 minutes. Dr. A will check on you before you leave and answer any questions.
After the Procedure
FIRST 24-48 HOURS:
- Rest at home; avoid strenuous activity
- Apply ice to injection site (20 min on, 20 min off)
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
- It’s normal to feel sore, stiff, or have increased pain temporarily
- Stay hydrated; walk around the house every few hours
DAYS 3-7:
- Gradually increase activity as tolerated
- Return to desk work after 1-2 days
- Avoid heavy lifting (>20 lbs) for 1 week
- No high-impact exercise for 2 weeks
WEEKS 2-4:
Most patients notice improvement during this period. Pain begins to decrease, mobility improves, and you can resume normal activities. Some people feel better sooner; others take the full 4 weeks.
MONTHS 1-6:
Continued healing occurs as your body regenerates disc tissue. Maximum benefit typically achieved at 3-6 months. You’ll have follow-up appointments at 1, 3, and 6 months to track progress.
Common Questions
Will I need time off work?
Most patients with desk jobs return to work the next day or within 1-2 days. Physical laborers may need 3-7 days off depending on job requirements.
When will I feel better?
Timeline varies. Some notice improvement within days, most within 2-4 weeks. Maximum benefit at 3-6 months. Be patient — healing takes time.
Will I need more than one treatment?
Most patients require only one treatment. Occasionally, a second injection is needed if improvement plateaus. This is determined at your follow-up visits.
The Bottom Line
Intradiscal ozone therapy is a straightforward outpatient procedure with minimal downtime. While everyone’s experience is unique, most patients are surprised by how simple and painless the process is — especially compared to the alternative of spine surgery.
If you’re considering this treatment, schedule a consultation to discuss your specific case. Dr. A will provide personalized information based on your condition and answer all your questions.
Contact Us
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Questions? Submit the contact form to get in touch with us or schedule an appointment.
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