When dealing with chronic back pain, Epidural Steroid Injections can be a highly effective treatment option. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a combination of a local anesthetic and a steroid medication directly into the epidural space of the spine.
Epidural Steroid Injections are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.
By targeting the source of pain directly, these injections can provide significant relief for patients experiencing persistent back or leg pain.
Epidural Steroid Injections are recommended for patients who have not found relief from other conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or rest.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as shooting pain down your legs, numbness or tingling in your extremities, or difficulty standing or walking due to back pain, you may be a candidate for this procedure.
The Epidural Steroid Injection procedure typically takes place in an outpatient setting and does not require general anesthesia.
Before the procedure begins, you will be positioned on an x-ray table, and your skin will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Using fluoroscopy (real-time x-ray guidance), the healthcare provider will insert a thin needle into the epidural space in your spine.
Once the needle is in the correct position, a mixture of steroid medication and anesthetic will be injected to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Epidural Steroid Injections are usually performed by a pain management specialist or an interventional radiologist. These healthcare providers have specialized training in performing minimally invasive procedures to treat pain conditions.
It is essential to choose a healthcare provider who has experience in administering Epidural Steroid Injections to ensure the procedure is done safely and effectively.
Before undergoing the injection, make sure to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider.
Before undergoing an Epidural Steroid Injection, your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
You may be asked to stop taking certain medications or refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before the injection.
After the Epidural Steroid Injection procedure is completed, you will be monitored for a short period in the recovery area to ensure there are no immediate complications.
It is normal to experience some mild soreness at the injection site, which can usually be alleviated with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications.
Many patients experience pain relief shortly after the injection, although it may take a few days for the full effects of the medication to kick in.
It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss your pain levels and determine if additional injections are needed for long-term relief.
Before undergoing an Epidural Steroid Injection, it is essential to discuss any potential risks or side effects with your healthcare provider.
While complications are rare, they can include infection, nerve damage, or allergic reactions to the medications used during the procedure.
Epidural Steroid Injections can be a valuable treatment option for patients suffering from chronic back pain. By targeting the source of pain directly, these injections can provide significant relief and improve quality of life for individuals experiencing spinal pain.
If you are considering Epidural Steroid Injection surgery, consult with your healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is right for you.
An epidural steroid injection works by delivering anti-inflammatory medicine directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord and nerves to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to treat conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other types of back or leg pain caused by inflammation of spinal nerves.
The effects of an epidural steroid injection can last anywhere from a few days to a year. It varies from person to person.
Yes, there are some risks associated with epidural steroid injections, such as infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and a temporary increase in pain. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
The number of epidural steroid injections that can be safely given over time varies for each individual and depends on factors such as the underlying condition being treated and the response to previous injections. It's best to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Yes, an epidural steroid injection can help relieve both acute and chronic pain by reducing inflammation and providing temporary relief.
After an epidural steroid injection, you may have some soreness at the injection site for a day or two. You can resume your usual activities the day after the procedure, but avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
Epidural steroid injections can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with sciatica, providing temporary relief for some people.
Epidural steroid injections can provide temporary relief for back pain, but the duration of relief varies for each individual. It's best to discuss with your healthcare provider to understand if this is the right option for you.
Physical therapy is not typically required after an epidural steroid injection, but your healthcare provider may recommend it to help improve your mobility and strength if needed.