Epidural Steroid Injection

At Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine, we offer epidural steroid injections as an effective, minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from chronic pain. Epidural steroid injections work by delivering powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves to reduce pain and inflammation.

What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive technique that involves injecting a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space of the spine. The epidural space is the area between the outermost covering of the spinal cord and the surrounding vertebral canal. Epidural steroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by various spinal conditions.

How Does an Epidural Steroid Injection Work?

The epidural steroid injection works by delivering the corticosteroid medication directly into the epidural space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. This targeted delivery allows the medication to reach the source of inflammation and pain, providing more effective relief compared to oral anti-inflammatory medications or other conservative treatments. When injected into the epidural space, the medication helps to reduce the inflammatory response and decrease the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals that can cause pain and discomfort.

Conditions Treated by Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections can be used to treat a variety of conditions that cause chronic pain, including:

• Herniated or bulging discs: When the discs between the vertebrae become damaged or slip out of place, they can put pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain and inflammation.

• Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

• Sciatica: Pain radiating down the leg due to compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, often caused by a herniated disc.

• Degenerative disc disease: Age-related changes in the spinal discs that lead to pain and discomfort.

• Spondylolisthesis: A condition where a vertebra slips out of position, causing nerve compression.

Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections offer a number of potential benefits for patients suffering from various spinal conditions:

• Pain relief: The corticosteroid medication can effectively reduce inflammation and swelling around the affected nerves, providing significant relief from pain, numbness, and tingling.

• Improved mobility: By reducing the inflammation and discomfort, epidural steroid injections can help improve your range of motion and overall mobility, allowing you to engage in more physical activities and daily tasks.

• Reduced need for oral medication: Epidural steroid injections can often provide more targeted and effective relief compared to oral anti-inflammatory medications, potentially reducing the need for long-term use of these drugs and their associated side effects.

• Potential to avoid surgery: In some cases, epidural steroid injections may be able to provide sufficient relief from symptoms, potentially allowing you to avoid more invasive surgical interventions.

• Improved quality of life: By reducing pain and improving mobility, epidural steroid injections can ultimately lead to a better overall quality of life and improved ability to engage in daily activities and recreational pursuits.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The epidural steroid injection procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately 15-30 minutes to complete.

• Consultation: The process begins with a consultation to evaluate your condition, medical history, and any previous treatments. Dr. Philip will determine if an epidural steroid injection is right the treatment for you.

• Preparation: You will be asked to lie face down on an exam table, and the injection site will be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized.

• Numbing the area: A local anesthetic will be used to numb the area where the injection will be administered, minimizing any discomfort during the procedure.

• Imaging guidance: Dr. Philip will use fluoroscopic (X-ray) or ultrasound imaging to precisely guide the needle into the targeted epidural space.

• Injection: Once the needle is properly positioned, the corticosteroid medication will be slowly injected into the epidural space.

• Monitoring: After the injection, you will be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions or complications.

The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with only mild discomfort or pressure being reported by most patients. We will work closely with you to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the entire process.

Epidural Steroid Injection FAQs

Q: Is the epidural steroid injection procedure painful? 

A: The procedure itself is generally well-tolerated, with only mild discomfort or pressure being reported by most patients. Dr. Philip will use a local anesthetic to numb the area before administering the injection, which helps minimize any pain or discomfort.

Q: How long does the pain relief last? 

A: The duration of pain relief varies from patient to patient. Some may experience relief for several weeks, while others enjoy months of reduced pain. In some cases, a series of injections is recommended for prolonged relief.

Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with epidural steroid injections? 

A: As with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects, such as temporary soreness at the injection site, allergic reaction to medications, infection, or bleeding. However, these complications are rare when the injection is performed by an experienced and qualified healthcare provider.

Q: Can I resume normal activities after the injection?

 A: Dr. Philip may recommend taking it easy for the first 24-48 hours after the injection, avoiding any strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting. After that, you can typically resume your normal activities, but it's important to follow your physician's specific instructions.

Q: How many epidural steroid injections can I receive? 

A: The number of injections you can receive will depend on your individual condition, severity, and response to the treatment. Dr. Philip will work with you to determine the appropriate treatment plan, which may involve a series of injections over time.

Is Epidural Steroid Injection Right for You?

If you're experiencing chronic back, neck, or leg pain that hasn't responded to other treatments, an epidural steroid injection may provide the relief you need. Schedule a consultation with Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine to learn more today. Dr. Philip can preform a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan, providing the highest quality of care to help you achieve lasting pain relief and improved mobility.