Epidural Steroid Injections for Pain Management Q&A

Epidural steroid injections are categorized based on their placement within the spine as well as the trajectory of the needle used to access the epidural space. One variation, the transforaminal epidural steroid injection, involves delivering medication precisely to the point where a specific affected nerve root exits the spine and faces compression due to a disc herniation.

This method is commonly the primary choice for lumbar spine epidural injections. Another type, known as the caudal epidural steroid injection, is administered when pain is concentrated at the lowermost part of the spine. By inserting the needle beneath the lumbar spine, or the lower back, this technique proves beneficial for addressing issues like herniated discs and sciatica-induced leg pain. The third type, termed interlaminar epidural steroid injection, is executed with the patient lying face down. Employing X-ray guidance, a surgeon injects a pain-relieving solution into the epidural space that is the source of discomfort. This particular procedure holds significant utility in managing spinal conditions that impact the entire spine, such as spinal stenosis.

After undergoing an epidural steroid injection, there are several post-procedure guidelines to consider. Typically, the primary goal of this injection is to offer effective short-term pain relief, which in turn allows for the initiation or continuation of physical therapy. It may also serve as a measure to potentially avoid more invasive pain relief procedures. The standard recovery window after the injection falls within the range of 30 minutes to an hour.

During this period, it’s customary to monitor your blood pressure for about half an hour after the procedure. For the subsequent 24 hours, it’s advisable to refrain from engaging in strenuous activities and instead opt for a more relaxed routine. If you encounter pain at the injection site, you have the option to manage it by applying ice or following the pain medication regimen prescribed by your physician. It’s worth noting that the onset of pain relief triggered by the injection can vary, taking effect anywhere from a few hours to as long as 7 to 10 days.

While these injections are generally highly effective, their success isn’t guaranteed in every case. When they do yield positive results, you can usually notice improvements within a span of 1 to 5 days. The pain relief experienced during this time can vary, lasting from several days to several months, or even more. In case you encounter any side effects, it’s essential to get in touch with your healthcare provider promptly.

Paying close attention to the level of pain relief achieved is important. If you find that the expected pain relief hasn’t been attained, it’s advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. This situation could indicate that the source of pain might not be related to the spinal nerves.

Epidural steroid injections have proven to be a valuable method for alleviating and managing pain across various conditions. Research findings consistently demonstrate notably positive success rates. According to studies, individuals who undergo an epidural steroid injection typically encounter at least partial pain relief, with figures indicating that up to 85% of recipients benefit from this intervention.

In numerous instances, epidural steroid injections deliver efficient pain relief for a limited period. Many individuals experience several months of improved pain management and increased functionality following these injections. If the injection proves successful, it can be repeated as necessary.

Should an epidural steroid shot prove successful in alleviating your pain, your medical professional might suggest undergoing another injection in the future. However, most healthcare providers usually restrict individuals to receiving two to three epidural steroid injections per year.

Epidural steroid injections have proven to be a valuable method for alleviating and managing pain across various conditions. Many individuals experience several months of improved pain management and increased functionality following these injections. Epidural steroid injections for pain management are available at Global Neuro & Spine Institute. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Orlando FL, Conway FL, Edgewood FL, Jensen Beach FL, Ocean Breeze FL, Rio FL, Malabar Palm Bay FL, Melbourne FL, Atlantis FL, Palm Springs FL, Boynton Beach FL, Fort Pierce FL, White City FL, St Lucie FL, Plantation FL, Pine Island Ridge FL, Lauderhill FL, Winter Park FL, Bertha FL, Alafaya FL and surrounding areas. We also encourage our patients to visit us online to learn more about our locations and directions to our clinics.