Epidural steroid injection is a safe and minimally invasive procedure used to treat nerve inflammation and pain caused by conditions such as herniated disc, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. The outpatient procedure involves positioning the patient comfortably, sterilizing the skin, using X-ray guidance to target the inflamed nerve, and injecting corticosteroid and anesthetic medications. Results are often immediate and can last for many months, allowing normal activities to continue. Repeat injections are safe and our specialists will determine the frequency of injections based on each individual case. While epidural steroid injection calms inflammation and decreases pain, it does not treat nerve compression. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained spine specialists can help you find out if an epidural injection can relieve your pain and improve your quality of life.
An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive procedure that treats nerve inflammation and pain. The outpatient procedure is performed using a mild sedative and local anesthesia. Procedure steps include:
Positioning. The patient is comfortably positioned face down on a soft table with a special area to rest the head and neck.
Skin preparation. Alcohol and a sterilization solution clean and sterilize the skin.
Nerve targeting. X-ray guidance is used to carefully place a needle near the inflamed nerve.
Injection. Corticosteroid and anesthetic medications are injected around the inflamed nerve.
Corticosteroid and anesthetic medications are powerful—often times they provide immediate pain relief. Results may last for many months.
Patients experience little to no discomfort during or after their procedure and are allowed to return home shortly after. Normal activities are usually not restricted.
Repeat injections may be performed to maintain results. Multiple injections per year have been deemed safe. Our specialists will determine the frequency of injections based on your individual case.
An epidural steroid injection treats an inflamed nerve that causes spine and/or extremity pain. Common conditions include but are not limited to:
An epidural steroid injection clams inflammation and decreases pain but it does not treat nerve compression. Other procedures may be recommended to remove pieces of nerve compressing bone and soft tissues.
To find out if an epidural injection can help relieve your pain, please contact us to arrange an appointment with a board-certified and fellowship-trained spine specialist.
