Epidural steroid injection
Epidural Steroid Injection
A procedure that reduces nerve-root inflammation,
for back or neck pain radiating into the leg or arm.
What is this procedure?
An epidural steroid injection delivers an anti-inflammatory medication
(a corticosteroid), usually combined with a local anesthetic, into the
epidural space — the space surrounding the covering of the spinal cord and
nerve roots. The medication reduces inflammation and swelling of a nerve
root that is being compressed or irritated, which is the source of
radiating pain.
The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to
confirm precise needle placement. It takes about 15–30 minutes and
generally does not require a hospital stay.
Who is it for?
- People with lower back pain radiating into the leg, or neck pain
radiating into the arm, caused by a herniated disc compressing a nerve root - People with spinal stenosis causing radiating pain or numbness
along a nerve - People whose pain still limits daily life despite a reasonable
period of medication and physical therapy - People who need pain relief in order to participate fully in
physical therapy
What happens during the procedure
- Staff check your vital signs; an intravenous line may be placed in some cases.
- You are positioned face-down (or as appropriate) on the X-ray table,
and the skin is cleaned with antiseptic. - The physician numbs the skin, then guides the needle into the
epidural space under X-ray, injecting a small amount of contrast dye
to confirm the position. - The steroid and local anesthetic are injected; the needle is removed
and a small plaster applied. - You are observed in the recovery area for about 30–60 minutes before
going home.
How to prepare
- Tell your physician about all regular medications — especially
blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs, which may need
to be paused beforehand exactly as your physician instructs. - Report any drug or contrast-dye allergies, medical conditions,
and pregnancy or possible pregnancy. - If you have a fever or an infection near the injection site,
please call to reschedule. - Bring a companion, and do not drive yourself home on the day of
the procedure. - You may eat normally unless advised otherwise.
After the procedure
- Temporary numbness or heaviness of the leg from the local anesthetic
may occur and resolves within a few hours. - Soreness at the injection site is common; a cold compress and rest
during the first 24 hours help. - The steroid’s pain-relieving effect usually begins within 2–7 days
and lasts from several weeks to several months, varying between individuals. - People with diabetes may have temporarily higher blood sugar for
1–3 days and should monitor more closely during this period.
Risks you should know
This procedure is very safe when performed by a specialist under image
guidance. Possible side effects include injection-site soreness, headache,
and temporary facial flushing. Serious complications — such as infection,
epidural bleeding, or nerve injury — are very rare.
Your physician will assess your individual risk and discuss it with you
before you decide.
you develop a high fever, severe headache, increasing weakness of an arm
or leg, loss of bladder or bowel control, or redness, swelling, and warmth
at the injection site — call 0-2206-2900 Ext. 10457
Questions about this procedure?
Our physicians are happy to assess your condition and advise you.