eli5 how can you lay down after getting an epidural??

Question

From what I understand an epidural is like acupuncture in the spine, so laying down, and other birthing activities, would likely… Excuse the graphic nature of this,, shove the needle fully into the spine.
How??

In: 0

Answer 1

>From what I understand an epidural is like acupuncture in the spine

Nope! It’s an injection into the spine, but much like other injections, the needle is withdrawn (leaving a flexible little tube through which the medicine is delivered over time).

Due to the delicate nature of the spinal column, the patient tends to be held very still by at least one rather large dude as the needle is inserted.