What is a spinal anaesthetic? 

A spinal anaesthetic involves an injection of local anaesthetic into your lower back, which numbs the lower half of your body so you do not feel pain during the procedure.  

With a spinal anaesthetic: 

You are usually awake, but comfortable. 

You may also have sedation to help you feel relaxed or sleepy. 

The numbness typically lasts for a few hours. 

When is a spinal anaesthetic used? 

Spinals are commonly used for operations such as: 

Hip or knee surgery 

Hernia repair 

Gynaecological procedures 

Urological surgery 

Some abdominal or vascular procedures. 

Sometimes, a spinal anaesthetic is used on its own, or combined with a general anaesthetic to improve pain relief after surgery. 

What are the benefits of a spinal anaesthetic? 

Compared with general anaesthesia, a spinal may offer: 

Better pain relief immediately after surgery. 

Less nausea and vomiting. 

Lower risk of chest infections. 

Lower risk of blood clots in the legs. 

Earlier return to eating and drinking. 

Your anaesthetist will explain whether these benefits apply to you. 

How is the spinal anaesthetic given? 

Before the injection 

You will have monitoring equipment applied (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels). 

A small plastic tube (cannula) will be placed in a vein in your hand or arm. 

During the procedure 

You will sit or lie curled on your side 

The skin in your lower back is numbed with local anaesthetic 

A small needle is used to give the spinal injection 

The procedure usually takes only a few minutes. 

The injection itself is usually no more uncomfortable than a blood test. 

You may feel a brief tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in your legs. 

After the injection: 

Your legs will feel warm, then numb and heavy 

You will not be able to move them  - this is normal 

It is normal to still experience touch and pressure feelings however you should not feel pain. 

What happens after the operation? 

The numbness usually wears off over a period of hours. 

As feeling returns, you may notice tingling or mild discomfort. 

You may need help standing until your legs regain strength – you should ask for a nurse to help you the first time you try to stand up. 

Pain relief will be provided as needed. 

Many people can eat, drink and recover more quickly compared with general anaesthesia.  

What are the risks and side effects? 

Spinal anaesthesia is generally very safe, but side effects can occur. 

Common side effects 

Low blood pressure (may make you feel lightheaded) 

Itching (if certain medicines are used) 

Difficulty passing urine (temporary) 

Less common risks 

A severe headache after the spinal (post-dural puncture headache) 

Temporary nerve symptoms such as tingling or numbness 

Rare risks 

Nerve damage (usually temporary, very rarely permanent) 

Infection or bleeding around the spine 

Your anaesthetist will discuss the risks most relevant to you before your procedure. 

Your spinal anaesthetic | The Royal College of Anaesthetists