Sacroiliac Joint Injections
Epidural steroid injections are a minimally invasive medical procedure that delivers powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding your spinal cord and nerve roots. This targeted approach provides effective relief from chronic back pain, neck pain, and radiating pain caused by various spinal conditions. Our experienced physicians use advanced imaging guidance to ensure precise placement of the medication, maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential side effects.
The epidural space is a small area between the protective covering of the spinal cord (dura mater) and the vertebral wall. When inflammation occurs in this region due to herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other conditions, it can compress nerve roots and cause significant pain. Our epidural steroid injection procedure involves the careful placement of corticosteroid medication directly into this space to reduce inflammation and provide lasting pain relief.
During the procedure, patients lie comfortably on their stomach while our physician uses fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray imaging) to precisely locate the affected area. A thin needle is inserted through the skin and guided to the epidural space, where a mixture of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is slowly injected. The entire process typically takes 15-30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
The corticosteroid medication works by reducing inflammation around compressed nerve roots, while the local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief. This dual-action approach ensures both short-term comfort and long-term therapeutic benefits. Most patients begin experiencing relief within 24-72 hours, with maximum benefits typically achieved within one to two weeks following the injection.
Following your epidural steroid injection, our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal results. While most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms, individual responses may vary based on the underlying condition, severity of inflammation, and overall health status. We work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include additional injections, physical therapy, or other complementary therapies to achieve the best possible outcomes and long-term pain management success.