A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is performed to collect cerebral spinal fluid and measure spinal fluid pressure. The procedure involves inserting a needle into the lower back.
Advice
Tell your doctor how much information you want to receive during the procedure.
Take calming breaths to help stay still and calm your mind during the procedure.
Ask your doctor if you should lie flat on your back after the procedure to reduce the possibility of a headache.
Stories
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
I was in the emergency room with symptoms consistent with meningitis so the doctors advised that they perform a lumbar puncture. Read More
Ken, male, 42, Massachusetts
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
I had a terrible headache and was in the emergency room in the middle of the night. The D.O. (osteopathic physician) recommended a lumbar puncture to rule out the possibility that I might have meningitis (an infection of the membranes around the brain which can be life threatening). Read More
David, male, 41, Connecticut
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
I had a lumbar puncture to test spinal fluid for the presence of blast cells (cancer cells) and to administer chemotherapy. I was brought into the procedure room. There was a flat table that is able to remain horizontal or rise vertically. Read More
Arthur, male, 24, Illinois
