Precision Care, Lasting Relief

We require your previous medical records, including imaging reports and office or procedure notes, to ensure we have a complete picture of your medical history. This information helps us understand what treatments you’ve already tried, the findings from your previous tests, and any procedures you’ve had. With this, we can avoid unnecessary repeat testing and provide you with the safest and most effective care. It allows us to tailor our approach to your needs, ensuring we build on the care you’ve already received.

During your initial pain consultation with Dr. Kim, you will receive a comprehensive evaluation to assess the most appropriate treatment options, including interventional pain management, physical therapy, acupuncture, or regenerative medicine. Further diagnostic testing, such as MRIs or EMGs, may be recommended if necessary. Please be aware that Dr. Kim does not treat chronic pain patients with opioids, and the practice does not participate in any form of disability evaluation, including VA disability assessments.

Most commercial insurance payers and many government advantage programs require pre-authorization before proceeding with an injection. While we make every effort to obtain this approval promptly, factors beyond our control can affect the timeline.

Each insurance company has its own internal team that reviews pre-authorization requests individually.

Some insurers follow a specific checklist of requirements, including factors such as the duration of symptoms, treatments or medications already tried, and imaging results (like MRIs or X-rays).

We must accurately document this information in your office visit note to ensure a smooth process. As a result, your first visit with Dr. Kim will be a consultation to initiate the insurance authorization and approval process.

1. Because the local anesthetic is used on your skin and soft tissue, you may feel numb at the injection site for 4-6 hours. If you feel sore during the first 1-2 days after your procedure, you may use ice over the injection sites. You may also use heat after that for comfort when desired.
2.       Mild discomfort at the injection sites is normal and should subside within 48 hours. If you experience bleeding at the injection site, extreme pain, not responding to the use of over-the-counter or prescribed medications, loss of control in bowel or bladder function, or weakness of the limbs after the procedure that lasts longer than 48 to 72 hours, please notify us at the number above.
3.       The steroid medication used in your injection is a potent anti-inflammatory targeting the painful nerve roots, discs, and joint spaces where the spinal nerves are located. It can take 3-4 days for the medication to become active and up to 7 days for the steroids to peak and become most effective.
4.       Steroid injections are often administered in a series of 1-3 injections, depending on your response. Subsequent injections gradually produce relief due to the cumulative effect of the steroid medication
5.       Steroids can have minor, short-term side effects in sensitive patients. Fluid retention, night sweats, flushed cheeks, high blood sugar, or menstrual period changes are temporary and will subside.
6.       If you had to stop your blood-thinning medications, you could resume with the next usual dose following the procedure.
7.       Light activity on the day of your treatment is best; unless otherwise instructed, you may resume your routine after the next day.
8.       You may shower after the procedure.
9.       You may remove the bandages after 12 hours.
10.   You may drive home unless you took an oral sedation pill before the procedure. Avoid driving for 6 to 8 hours after your procedure if you have taken the sedation pill.