General Information About the Test
Test Process and Preparation
There is a false belief among the public that drawing fluid from the lower back will cause paralysis. The area where the needle is inserted (between the L3-L4 or L4-L5 vertebrae) is a safe space where the spinal cord has ended and only nerve fibers float. Therefore, in expert hands, it does not carry a risk of paralysis.
Before the procedure, the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the lower back region are numbed with local anesthesia. There may be a slight sensation of pressure as the needle enters, but severe pain is not experienced. The procedure generally takes 10-15 minutes.
Due to the temporary change in fluid pressure, a headache may occur upon standing up after the procedure. To prevent this, it is recommended that the patient lies flat on their back for 1-2 hours after the procedure, consumes plenty of fluids, and drinks caffeinated beverages.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only. The results of medical tests must be evaluated by specialist physicians.
