Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection
What is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection?
A Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection in a minimally invasive injection used to relieve back, neck, arm, and leg pain caused by inflamed spinal nerves. Typically these nerves are inflamed due to spinal stenosis or disc herniation. An cocktail of a corticosteroid and an anesthetic numbing agent is injected into the epidural space of the spine (the area between the vertebra and protective dura sac surrounding the spinal nerves and cord).
Who is a candidate for an Epidural Steroid Injection?
Patients with pain in the neck, arm, leg, or low back may benefit from an Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI). In addition, patients with the following conditions:
- Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal and nerve root canal can cause back and leg pain, especially when walking.
- Spondylolisthesis: A weakness or fracture between the upper and lower facets of a vertebra. If the vertebra slips forward, it can compress the nerve roots causing pain.
- Herniated Disc: The gel-like material within the disc can bulge or rupture through a weak area in the surrounding wall (annulus). Irritation, pain, and swelling occur when this material squeezes out and comes in contact with a spinal nerve.
- Degenerative Disc: A breakdown or aging of the intervertebral disc causing collapse of the disc space, tears in the annulus, and growth of bone spurs.
- Sciatica: Pain that courses along the sciatic nerve in the buttocks and down the legs. It is usually caused by compression of the 5th lumbar or 1st sacral spinal nerve.
What are the results of the Epidural Steroid Injection?
The majority of patients do experience pain relief following an ESI. However, some patients may only receive mild pain relief. For those patients, one or two additional injections may be performed. These injections will most likely be performed in 1-4 week intervals in order for the patient to feel the full effect. The duration of pain relief varies, some patients report that is last for a few weeks to a few years. Injections will be done in conjunction with a physical therapy or at home exercise regimen that focuses on strengthening back muscles.
To book an appointment with one of our Epidural Steroid Injection Specialists, please call our 24–hour phone line to schedule an appointment! 817.375.5200
