Epidural Steroid Injections
What is an epidural steroid injection?
An epidural steroid injection is one of the most popular treatment options for delivering pain medicine quickly into the body with a syringe. It is sometimes called an ESI.
The injection is named an epidural steroid injection because it involves injecting a local anesthetic and a steroid medication directly into the epidural space that surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots. This epidural space of the spine is between the bony vertebra and the protective dura sac surrounding the spinal nerves and cord. It is an ideal place for medication to enter the body.
Benefits of the Epidural Location
The epidural space allows unique access to the spinal cord and nerve roots at every level of the spine. Epidural steroid injections are a safe, low-risk way to deliver a variety of medications directly to the nervous system. The goal is to reduce pain so that you may resume normal activities and a physical therapy program.
There are many reasons you may need an epidural steroid injection, including:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica
- Lower leg pain
- Post-surgical pain
- Assisting rehab efforts
- Help to reduce inflammation
- Other pains
How is an epidural steroid injection given?
Epidural steroid injections may be given in the cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral regions of the spine. Prior to the injection, the skin over the treatment site is cleaned and numbed by injecting a local anesthetic. Your provider will make sure you feel comfortable and at ease before, during, and after the procedure.
If you have an epidural steroid injection, medications can vary. They may include steroids, local anesthetic, and opioids depending on your pain and preferences.
How does an epidural steroid injection work?
When delivered to the epidural space, medications can:
- Block pain impulses
- Stabilize irritated nerves
- Reduce swelling
- Reverse inflammatory changes and “spinal cord wind-up” within the nervous system
How long does it take before relief?
Most patients can walk around immediately after the procedure. After being monitored for a short time, you usually can leave the center. There is a small risk of leg weakness and numbness, so it is best to have someone drive you home.
The steroids usually begin working within one to three days. In some cases, you might need up to a week to feel the benefits. Many people get several months of improvement in pain and function from the injections. If the injection is effective, it can be repeated.
Schedule your ESI appointment today
Give Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance a call today at 414-384-6700 to schedule your epidural steroid injection appointment and take the first step toward lasting pain relief.