Spinal Injections

Epidural Steroid Injections

Corticosteroid delivered directly to the inflamed nerve root, reducing radiating pain in the arms or legs caused by compressed spinal nerves.

Spinal

Procedure Overview

Radiating pain that travels from the neck into the arm, or from the lower back into the leg, is often a sign that a nerve root is compressed or inflamed inside the spine. The pain can be sharp, burning, or electric. It may come and go, or it may be constant. If that pattern sounds familiar, the nerve root may be the source, and it can often be treated directly without surgery.

Treatment Purpose

Epidural steroid injections deliver corticosteroid medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. This targeted approach reduces inflammation around the compressed nerve, relieving the radiating pain it is causing. The procedure also serves a diagnostic purpose by confirming which nerve root is involved.

Appropriate Conditions

Herniated discs
Spinal stenosis
Sciatica
Degenerative disc disease
Radiculopathy causing pain that radiates into the arms or legs

Patient Considerations

Epidural steroid injections are one of the most commonly performed procedures in interventional pain management. At SCOPES Health, every injection is performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance so the needle is placed with precision. Local anesthesia is applied beforehand. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes and you go home the same day.

Treatment Process

The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will lie on a procedure table and local anesthesia will be applied to the injection site. Under fluoroscopic guidance, a needle is precisely placed into the epidural space and corticosteroid is injected. You rest briefly in recovery before going home. Most patients return to normal activities within 1 to 2 days. A series of up to 3 injections can be performed for optimal benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does relief last?

Relief typically lasts weeks to months. The duration varies by patient and condition.

Is the procedure painful?

Local anesthesia is applied beforehand. Most patients feel mild pressure during the injection and tolerate it well.

What are the risks?

Generally very safe. Rare risks include infection, bleeding, or a temporary increase in pain that resolves within a few days.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified physician. Talk with a doctor about your specific condition and treatment options. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

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