If you’ve ever delayed a treatment because of nerves or discomfort, you’re not alone. For many patients, the thought of getting an injection—even one that could help relieve pain or speed up recovery—can cause anxiety. At Orthopedic Institute, we understand that part of excellent care is making sure you feel comfortable throughout your experience.
That’s why we’re excited to offer nitrous oxide treatment as a new way to help patients relax during certain in-office procedures.
Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide has been used safely in medicine and dentistry for more than a century. Now, we’re bringing its calming effects to orthopedic care—because getting better shouldn’t have to feel stressful.
Understanding Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that promotes a mild, calming sensation when inhaled. It’s not a sedative that puts you to sleep—you stay fully awake and alert—but it helps take the edge off anxiety and discomfort. Many patients describe the experience as feeling light, floaty, or pleasantly relaxed. Some even report feeling slightly euphoric or giggly (hence the nickname “laughing gas”).
When used for OI Nitrous Oxide treatments, patients breathe the gas through a small mask or mouthpiece during the procedure. The effects kick in within minutes and wear off quickly—typically 5 to 10 minutes after you stop inhaling.
How Nitrous Oxide Is Helping Patients at Orthopedic Institute
We’re always looking for ways to improve our patient experience. For many people, injections like cortisone shots, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), or subchondral injections can be a source of worry—even when they’re necessary for recovery. That anxiety can cause people to delay care, which can ultimately lead to worsening symptoms or longer recovery timelines.
With nitrous oxide at Orthopedic Institute, we can help patients move forward with the care they need—minus the added stress.
Some of the biggest benefits of nitrous oxide treatment include:
- Fast relief: You’ll start to feel calmer within just a few minutes.
- Self-controlled: You control when and how much you breathe in.
- Non-invasive: There’s no need for additional needles or medication.
- No lingering effects: You’ll feel back to normal shortly after your appointment.
- Perfect for anxious patients: Especially helpful for those who are nervous about injections or minor procedures.
Whether it’s your first injection or your tenth, this option can make the process a lot smoother.
What to Expect with OI Nitrous Oxide
When you arrive for your appointment, your care team will walk you through the process and answer any questions. If you’ve opted for nitrous oxide, you’ll be given a small mask or mouthpiece and instructed on how to use it.
The best part? You’re in control. You can start inhaling when you’re ready and stop when you feel relaxed. The effects come on gently and subside just as easily. There’s no grogginess or downtime, and you’ll be able to continue with your day shortly after.
Our team stays by your side the entire time, monitoring your comfort and making sure you have everything you need.
It’s important to note that nitrous oxide treatment is a cash-pay option and is not billed through insurance. However, our staff will explain all pricing details ahead of time so there are no surprises.
Is Nitrous Oxide Safe?
Yes. Nitrous oxide is one of the most widely used and well-studied options for mild sedation in the medical field. It’s been trusted for more than 100 years in both dental and surgical settings, and when used properly, it has an excellent safety record.
At Orthopedic Institute, we follow strict safety protocols and only offer nitrous oxide in appropriate settings. If you have questions about whether it’s a good fit for you, our providers are happy to discuss your health history and concerns during your appointment.
Who Should Consider Nitrous Oxide?
This service is designed for patients who experience:
- Anxiety about injections
- A low pain threshold
- A previous negative experience with a procedure
- General nervousness in medical settings
It’s especially popular among those receiving cortisone, PRP, or other types of orthopedic injections. If you’ve ever hesitated to schedule an appointment because of nerves, OI Nitrous Oxide could be a helpful tool to get you back on track.
How to Request Nitrous Oxide for Your Next Appointment
If you think nitrous oxide might be a good fit for you, just let us know! You can talk to your provider during your visit, or give us a call ahead of time so we can plan accordingly.
There’s no need to suffer through anxiety or delay care because of nerves. Nitrous oxide at Orthopedic Institute is here to make your experience more comfortable, more manageable, and more personalized to your needs.
Getting the care you need shouldn’t be stressful. With nitrous oxide treatment, we’re making it easier to feel calm, confident, and in control.
Ready to schedule? Contact us today to learn more about adding nitrous oxide to your next visit.