Epidural injections deliver medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord. This treatment helps reduce inflammation, and it can alleviate pain caused by various spinal conditions. Patients experiencing chronic back pain, sciatica, or nerve compression may benefit from this targeted approach to pain management. Here is more information about epidural injections and the results that they may achieve:
Before the Injection
Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and current symptoms before scheduling any epidural injections. They may order imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, and these help them identify the precise location causing your pain. Your doctor will also discuss any medications you are taking, as blood thinners may need to be stopped temporarily before the procedure.
You will receive specific instructions about fasting; this typically means avoiding food and drink for several hours before your appointment. Someone should accompany you to drive you home afterward. While the procedure itself is outpatient, planning for rest following your appointment is wise.
During the Injection
The procedure takes place in an outpatient setting, and the patient lies face-down on an examination table. A local anesthetic numbs the injection site, minimizing discomfort during the procedure. Your doctor uses fluoroscopy, which is a type of real-time X-ray, to guide the needle to the correct location in the epidural space.
Once the needle reaches the target area, your doctor injects a combination of:
- A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation
- A local anesthetic for immediate pain relief
The entire procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients report feeling only mild pressure or a brief stinging sensation during the injection.
After the Injection
You may spend time in a recovery area where staff monitor your vital signs and your immediate response to the medication. Some patients experience temporary numbness or weakness in their legs, but this typically resolves within a few hours. Your doctor may ask you to perform certain movements. This helps them to assess how the injection affects your pain levels.
Rest is recommended for the remainder of the day following your epidural injection. You can typically resume normal activities the next day, though your provider may instruct you to rest for a day or so. The corticosteroid may take several days to reach its full effect, so immediate pain relief should not be the only measure of success.
Possible side effects include temporary soreness at the injection site and headache, and you may experience facial flushing. Serious complications are rare but can include infection, bleeding, or nerve damage. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience a severe headache, fever, or increasing pain after the procedure.
Results of the Injection
Chronic lower back pain that radiates down one or both legs often responds well to epidural injections. This radiating pain is known as sciatica, and it occurs when herniated discs or bone spurs compress nerve roots. Physical therapy and oral medications may not provide sufficient relief for some patients with these conditions.
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, and it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. Epidural injections may help manage these symptoms and improve mobility. Your spine specialist will evaluate whether your specific condition makes you a good candidate for this treatment option.
Learn More About Epidural Injections
Epidural injections offer a minimally invasive option for managing various types of spinal pain. The procedure involves careful preparation, precise delivery of medication under imaging guidance, and a brief recovery period; results vary among patients, with some experiencing significant relief and others finding more modest benefits. If you want to learn more about epidural injections and their benefits, consult a spine specialist near you.
