Of the types of injections for back pain, a lumbar epidural steroid injection
is one of the most effective for treating the
radiating pain caused by an inflamed nerve. The injection deposits a potent dosage of
steroid medication into the epidural space of the spine, bathing the irritated
nerve root.
Many patients experience a significant decrease in pain after only one
or two injections, although this procedure may need to be repeated up
to three times to provide the maximum benefit.
American Pain Consortium can administer these injections, ultimately providing pain relief.
About Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections
Like most spinal injections for back pain, a lumbar epidural is an outpatient
procedure. Patients receive a local anesthetic to numb the back before
the physician injects the medication, using a thin needle. Depending on
which nerves are inflamed, more than one injection may be necessary to
ensure the medication reaches the affected nerve roots.
Benefits of Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections
Lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESIs) are a common treatment option
for managing lower back pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs,
spinal stenosis, or sciatica. While the effectiveness of LESIs may vary
from person to person, they can offer several potential benefits, including:
Pain relief: LESIs can provide significant pain relief by reducing inflammation and
swelling in the affected area. The steroid medication injected into the
epidural space around the spinal cord helps to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Reduced inflammation: Epidural steroid injections deliver corticosteroids directly to the site
of inflammation, helping to reduce swelling and irritation of the nerves
in the spinal canal. This can result in decreased pain and improved mobility.
Improved function and mobility: By reducing pain and inflammation, LESIs can improve the function and
mobility of individuals with lower back pain. This can enable them to
perform daily activities with greater ease and participate in physical
therapy or rehabilitation programs more effectively.
Diagnostic tool: LESIs can also serve as a diagnostic tool to help identify the source
of lower back pain. If the injection provides temporary pain relief, it
suggests that the specific area targeted by the injection is likely the
source of the pain. This information can guide further treatment decisions.
Adjunct to other therapies: LESIs can be used in conjunction with other conservative treatments, such
as physical therapy, exercise, and medication, to enhance overall pain
management and rehabilitation outcomes.
It's important to note that while LESIs can provide temporary relief, the
effects are typically not permanent. The duration of pain relief can vary,
lasting anywhere from a few days to several months.
Schedule a consultation to learn whether lumbar epidural steroid injections are right for you.
Recovery Time After Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections
Patients may experience some mild soreness after this procedure, but most
patients can resume normal activity the following day.
What to Expect After Lumber Epidural Steroid Injections
After lumbar epidural steroid injections, you may experience some immediate
relief from pain due to the local anesthetic used during the procedure.
However, the steroid medication typically takes a few days to start reducing
inflammation and providing more substantial pain relief. It's common to
have some temporary soreness or discomfort at the injection site. You
may also be advised to limit physical activity for a brief period following
the procedure. It's essential to follow our post-injection instructions
and attend any follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and adjust
the treatment plan as needed.
Treating Chronic Nerve Pain
The benefits from lumbar epidural steroid injections may last weeks, months,
or years. We often recommend this treatment for patients who have nerve
pain caused by spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or spondylolisthesis
(a dislocated vertebra in the lower back).
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