Reasons to do spinal tap does a myelogram hurt?

Lumbar puncture: The most common cause for a spinal tap is to get spinal fluid to analyze for infection and in some cases to look for tumor cells if that is suspected. A tap can be painful with the needle passage but that depends on the anatomy and skill of the person doing it.

Myelogram: The doctor performing your myelogram will most likely be using xray guidance and not just free-handing it on landmarks and feel. This should make it much faster and easier on you.

Spine evaluation: A myelogram is a common diagnostic study that most patients tolerate well. The physician will place you on a flouroscopy table, prep your lower back, inject a local anesthetic, place a needle in your back, inject dye, remove the needle, place a bandaid and summon the radiology tech to take x-rays. Then you will have a ct. You will be observed for several hours and be discharged.