Epidural Steroid Injections
What Are Epidural Steroid Injections?
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a non-surgical treatment designed to relieve chronic pain in the back, neck, or limbs caused by inflammation around the spinal nerves. By delivering a potent combination of corticosteroid medication and a local anesthetic directly into the epidural space of the spine, these injections reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting pain relief.
How Do Epidural Steroid Injections Work?
The procedure targets the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots. Here’s how it works:
- Imaging guidance: A fluoroscope (a live X-ray) helps your provider precisely locate the injection site.
- Medication delivery: A corticosteroid, combined with a local anesthetic, is injected into the epidural space.
- Pain relief: The corticosteroid reduces inflammation, while the anesthetic provides immediate, temporary pain relief.
By addressing inflammation, ESIs alleviate pressure on the nerves, helping to reduce pain and improve mobility.
What Conditions Can Epidural Steroid Injections Treat?
ESIs are commonly used to manage pain caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Sciatica or radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating down the legs or arms)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
If you’re struggling with persistent pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments, ESIs may be an effective solution.
What Are the Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections?
Epidural steroid injections offer several advantages for patients dealing with chronic pain:
- Non-surgical: Provides pain relief without the need for invasive surgery.
- Quick procedure: Typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
- Targeted relief: Delivers medication directly to the source of pain.
- Improved mobility: Reduces pain, enabling patients to engage in physical therapy or daily activities.
- Minimal downtime: Most patients resume normal activities the following day.
Are Epidural Steroid Injections Safe?
Yes, ESIs are considered safe when performed by experienced medical professionals. While mild side effects, such as temporary soreness at the injection site or flushing, may occur, serious complications such as loss of vision, stroke, paralysis, and death are rare. Your provider will review your medical history and discuss potential risks to ensure the procedure is appropriate for you.
What Should You Expect During and After the Procedure?
Epidural steroid injections are typically performed on an outpatient basis. Here’s what to expect:
- Before the procedure: You may be asked to change into a gown, and the injection site will be sterilized.
- During the procedure: You’ll lie in a comfortable position as your provider uses imaging guidance to place the needle precisely. A small amount of contrast dye may be used to ensure proper placement before the medication is injected.
- After the procedure: You’ll be monitored briefly and can usually go home the same day. Light activities can resume immediately, but strenuous activities should be avoided for 24 hours.
Pain relief may begin within a few days, with full effects typically felt within a week.
Who Is a Candidate for Epidural Steroid Injections?
ESIs may be indicated for individuals who:
- Experience chronic pain due to nerve inflammation in the spine.
- Have not found relief through medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments.
- Want a non-surgical option for managing pain.
Your healthcare provider will determine if ESIs are the right choice based on your condition and medical history.
Take Control of Your Pain Today
Living with chronic back, neck, or limb pain can be debilitating, but Epidural Steroid Injections may offer a minimally invasive path to relief. Speak with your healthcare provider to see if this treatment can help you regain comfort and mobility, and start your journey toward a pain-free life.