Brief Answer: Possible nerve symptoms from epidural anesthesia.. Detailed Answer: Hi, I have gone through your query and understood your concerns. Epidural is an easy and effective procedure to reduce pain during labor. It is a safe procedure which is not associated with long-term complications. Usually, the nerve symptoms will take some time (up to several months) to resolve on their own. In your case, the "pencil stiffness" you feel when you stay in a position might be related to epidural anesthesia. It will be resolved by its own. If you will notice that the stiffness or pain is getting worst (especially in sitting or standing position), you are having more episodes of getting "pencil stiff" pain, and if you are also having high fever, nausea/vomiting; I highly recommend to consult your physician as soon as possible for further evaluation. Otherwise, everything will be resolved on its own, but needs some time. Hope it answered to your query! Let me know if you have more questions! Dr.Albana

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