Epidural Steroid Injections Patient Information

An epidural steroid injection is a procedure performed at the hospital by the radiologist or anesthesiologist because of their expertise in exact needle placement. Sometimes, x-ray control such as fluoroscopy may be used if necessary. The total length of time required is approximately four to five hours. Initially, the low back is prepped with a sterile solution and then local anesthesia along with sedation is used. The needle is then placed by the radiologist or the anesthesiologist through the muscles and into the space around the lumbar spinal nerves. A solution of anesthetic and steroid preparation is then infiltrated around the nerves which often lessens pain and inflammation around the nerves, thereby, improving comfort level and ability to participate in activities of daily living. Usually, observation is performed for one or two hours after the injection to ensure patient comfort and safety prior to discharge home. A series of two or three injections is sometimes utilized. These are usually performed two to three weeks apart. These injections have been found helpful for people with disc herniations, degenerative lumbar disc disease, and also spinal stenosis in improving comfort level, ability to carry on activities of daily living, and also job requirements. Please feel free to contact our office should you have any other questions or concerns about epidural steroid injections.