Day of spinal anaesthesia

Overview

Spinal anaesthesia is a type of numbing medicine given as an injection in your lower back. It makes you numb from the waist down so you can have surgery without feeling pain, while staying awake or lightly sleepy. This page explains what happens on the day you have spinal anaesthesia.

Yes, spinal anaesthesia is a common and safe type of anaesthesia used for many surgeries on the legs, hips, lower belly, and areas below the belly button.

It is used for adults and sometimes older children who need certain surgeries. It may be recommended if you have health conditions that make general anaesthesia (being fully asleep) riskier.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Numbness and loss of feeling in your legs and lower belly
• A tingling or warm sensation as the medicine takes effect
• Inability to move your legs for a few hours
• A feeling of light-headedness or a drop in blood pressure soon after the injection

Symptoms in children

• Children may feel anxious about the injection; distraction and comfort are helpful.
• They may also feel numbness and inability to move their legs.
• Some children may need extra calming medicine.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may be more sensitive to blood pressure changes.
• They may feel more confusion or dizziness after the procedure.
• Numbness and weakness in the legs wear off more slowly in some older people.

Causes

Main causes

• Spinal anaesthesia is given intentionally for surgery – it is not a disease or condition.
• It is used for procedures like hip or knee replacement, hernia repair, C-section, and some urological surgeries.

Risk factors

• Being very thin or very overweight can make the injection more difficult.
• Having certain spine problems, like scoliosis or previous back surgery, may affect the procedure.
• Taking blood-thinning medicines increases the risk of bleeding around the spine.
• Having a bleeding disorder or a history of migraine headaches may increase risks.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you develop a severe headache after spinal anaesthesia that does not improve with lying down and pain relief
• If you have new weakness, numbness, or pain in your legs
• If you have difficulty passing urine after the numbing wears off

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild back pain or a bruise at the injection site that does not improve in a few days
• If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery

Diagnosis

Spinal anaesthesia is a procedure, not a condition, so it is not 'diagnosed'. Your anaesthetist will assess your medical history, allergies, and any medications you take to decide if spinal anaesthesia is right for you.

Tests that may be done

• A physical exam, including checking your spine and skin where the injection will be given
• Blood tests to check clotting if you are on blood-thinning medicines
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) if you have heart problems

What to expect at your appointment

On the day of surgery, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Your anaesthetist will explain the steps again and answer any questions. You will then be taken to the anaesthetic room or operating theatre. The injection itself takes a few minutes – you may feel a small pinch and then a warm, numb feeling spreading down your legs.

Treatment

Spinal anaesthesia is part of your surgical treatment – it makes the surgery possible without general anaesthesia. After the procedure, the numbing wears off on its own over 1–4 hours. The main 'treatment' is managing any side effects and ensuring a comfortable recovery.

Self-care at home

• Lie flat for a few hours if you have a headache – this helps prevent a spinal headache.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Ask for help when you first try to walk after the numbness wears off – your legs may feel unsteady.
• Take pain relief as advised by your healthcare team.

Medical treatments

If you develop a spinal headache that does not go away with rest and fluids, a doctor may perform a procedure called a blood patch – injecting a small amount of your own blood near the injection site to seal the leak. Other complications, like infection or nerve irritation, are rare and treated with antibiotics or medicines as needed. Your anaesthetist will also monitor and manage your blood pressure during the procedure.

When is surgery considered?

Spinal anaesthesia is used for surgery, so the surgery itself is the main treatment. After the surgery, you will be cared for in a recovery area until the numbness wears off enough for you to move your legs safely.

Living with this condition

Spinal anaesthesia is a one-time event – you do not 'live with' it long-term. On the day of surgery, plan to rest and have someone stay with you. Most people go home the same day or the next day, depending on the surgery.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid driving or operating machinery for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
• Do not drink alcohol until the next day.
• Follow any specific instructions from your surgeon about activity and lifting after the operation.

Diet and exercise

You can usually eat and drink normally after spinal anaesthesia, but check with your surgical team. Gentle walking as soon as you feel able helps with recovery, but avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon says it is safe.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Having surgery and anaesthesia can be stressful. It is normal to feel anxious beforehand or tired and emotional afterwards. Talk to your healthcare team if you feel very worried or have trouble sleeping.

Prevention

Spinal anaesthesia is a planned procedure, so it does not need prevention. However, you can reduce the risk of complications by giving your anaesthetist a complete list of all medicines and supplements you take, and by following fasting instructions (not eating or drinking for a certain time before surgery).

Complications

If left untreated

• Spinal headache – if not treated, it can last a week or more and make it hard to do daily activities.
• Infection at the injection site – rare, but could spread if not treated promptly.
• Nerve damage – very rare, but if it happens and is not recognized, it could lead to long-term numbness or weakness.

Long-term outlook

Spinal anaesthesia is very safe. Serious complications are rare. Most people recover quickly from the anaesthesia itself and can focus on recovering from their surgery. Your care team will take every precaution to keep you safe.

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