What is an epidural steroid injection?
An epidural steroid injection is a commonly used procedure to address neck, mid and low back pain when the pain presents and is severe, radiates to the arms, shoulders, or to the legs. Using x-ray guidance, a needle is guided into space called the epidural space that will deliver a medication containing cortisone that will decrease inflammation of discs and nerves, alleviating symptoms. A series of anywhere from one to three is usually necessary when the severe neck and low back pain has been present, has failed to improve with more conservative things like physical therapy or chiropractic treatments, and is considered more conservative than undergoing surgery.
What are the indications for epidural steroid injection?
Indications for epidural steroid injection are continued and severe neck, midthoracic, or low back pain that has failed to improve with more conservative treatments including rest, medications, physical therapy, or chiropractic treatments.
Can an epidural steroid injection help my pain?
Usually undergoing a series of anywhere from one up to three injections will determine whether there is a significant improvement that is long-lasting, which is the goal.
- Pathway
- Orthopedics
- Spine
- Non-Surgical Procedures
- Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection
