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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How did you feel after a liver biopsy? I have a fairly physical job. Will I be able to work the day after a biopsy?

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Sarnia, ON

I had my first appointment with the hepatologist yesterday. He wants me to have a liver biopsy to confirm diagnosis and / or check stage and rule out AIH. My AMA was positive and liver values high but apparently just on the edge. I asked if there would be any discomfort after the biopsy and he said maybe some mild discomfort. I didn't think to ask if I could work the next day. I have a fairly physical job as a massage therapist.

July 14
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Answer Summary

Members shared a range of experiences after a liver biopsy in response to a massage therapist asking whether she could work the next day, with... Read more

Members shared a range of experiences after a liver biopsy in response to a massage therapist asking whether she could work the next day, with most agreeing that at least one day of rest is strongly recommended. Several members described mild to moderate discomfort, while others had more intense reactions including significant pain, nausea, or fainting that required extended recovery time and medical support. A recurring theme was the importance of avoiding heavy lifting for up to a week after the procedure, communicating restrictions to employers, and planning ahead for possible downtime.

A myPBCteam Member

I was advised to have a day or two rest, and full 7 days of not lifting anything heavy or doing anything strenuous.

July 15 (edited)
A myPBCteam Member

I had one and never had discomfort.

July 14
A myPBCteam Member

I had no pain during or after a liver biopsy. I was instructed not to lift anything heavier than a gallon of milk for 2 weeks after. I pray everything goes well for you.

July 14
myPBCteam

It's great that you're asking these questions — being your own advocate is so important, especially at this stage of your journey. Your hepatologist is right that some mild discomfort is common after a liver biopsy, but experiences can vary quite a bit from person to person.

Pain after a liver biopsy is one of the most Show Full Answer

It's great that you're asking these questions — being your own advocate is so important, especially at this stage of your journey. Your hepatologist is right that some mild discomfort is common after a liver biopsy, but experiences can vary quite a bit from person to person.

Pain after a liver biopsy is one of the most common side effects. Most people experience mild pain, but some have reported more significant discomfort — with at least one myPBCteam member ending up in the ER and missing a week of work afterward.

Liver pain can also radiate into the back and shoulders, which is worth keeping in mind given the physical demands of massage therapy work. Given that your job involves significant physical exertion, it would be really worth calling your hepatologist's office before the biopsy to specifically ask:

- Can I return to physical work the next day?
- Are there any lifting or movement restrictions after the procedure?
- How long should I plan to rest?

It's always better to plan for extra recovery time just in case. Having a backup plan — like arranging cover for at least a day or two after the biopsy — could save you a lot of stress if you end up needing more rest than expected.

July 14
A myPBCteam Member

Thanks so much everyone! I'll take the next day off to be safe and will call the office to see if there's any other restrictions.

July 15

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