WHAT IS AN EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTION ?
An epidural injection is an injection of long lasting steroid and occasionally some other medications into the epidural space. The epidural space is the area that surrounds the spinal cord and the nerves coming out of it. The epidural space is just inside the spinal canal and extends from the neck to the base of the tailbone.
Very pleased with excellent treatment I have received i have past few months, staff is always attentive, my hip injection from Dr. Maslin was flawless and took away the pain ever since. Thank you!!
The long acting steroid injected reduces the inflammation and swelling of spinal nerves and other surrounding tissues in the epidural space. This may in turn reduce pain, tingling and numbness and other symptoms caused by such inflammation, irritation or swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the epidural injection performed?
An epidural steroid injection consists of a mixture of saline, sometimes a very small amount of local anesthetic and a long acting steroid medication. After a series of intake questions, a patient is laid on an injection table. The skin of the neck or back is cleaned with antiseptic solution and then the injection is carried out. All epidurals are performed using x-ray guidance with the patient lying on the table on their stomach.
What should I expect after the epidural injection?
Immediately after the injection, you should feel much the same as before the injection. You may have a small numb area at the injection site. You may also have some deep ache from the passing of the injection needle. Certain patients, especially those with prior neck or back surgery around the injection site, may have some soreness or aching for a day or two. This is due to the mechanical process of needle insertion, as well as initial irritation from the volume of the medications injected. You should start noticing pain relief starting the third day or so.
What should I expect after the epidural injection?
Immediately after the injection, you should feel much the same as before the injection. You may have a small numb area at the injection site. You may also have some deep ache from the passing of the injection needle. Certain patients, especially those with prior neck or back surgery around the injection site, may have some soreness or aching for a day or two. This is due to the mechanical process of needle insertion, as well as initial irritation from the volume of the medications injected. You should start noticing pain relief starting the third day or so.
Before the Treatment
- #1
You should not have anything to eat or drink for at least eight (8) hours before your scheduled procedure.
- #2
If you are scheduled to receive sedation, you must have someone available to drive you home.
- #3
If you usually take medication for high blood pressure or any kind of heart condition, make sure to take this medication at the usual time with a sip of water before your procedure.
- #4
If you are taking any type of medication that can thin the blood and cause excessive bleeding, you should discuss with your doctors whether to discontinue this medication prior to the procedure.
After the Treatment
- #1
Following discharge home, you should plan on simple rest and relaxation.
- #2
If you have pain at the injection site, application of an ice pack to this area should be helpful.
- #3
If you receive intravenous sedation, you should not drive a car for at least eight hours.
- #4
Patients are generally advised to go home and not return to work after this type of injection. Most people do return to work the next day.
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