Epidural Injections for Chronic Back Pain

An epidural injection is a minimally invasive procedure that entails the introduction of medication into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves exiting the spine. Typically, this medication comprises of a combination of a corticosteroid, which diminishes inflammation, and a local anesthetic, which offers immediate pain relief.

Epidural injections are predominantly utilized for addressing back pain stemming from conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and other ailments that compress or irritate spinal nerves. They also serve as a means of pain management during surgical procedures.

Conducted primarily on an outpatient basis, the procedure is brief, typically lasting a few minutes. The patient assumes a prone or lateral position, and a small needle is guided into the epidural space with X-ray assistance. Following the injection of medication, the needle is withdrawn.

What to Expect with Epidural Injections

Immediate pain relief is commonly experienced post-epidural injection, though the duration of relief varies among individuals. The effects can persist from several days to several months, and in some cases, multiple injections may be necessary over time to attain long-term pain relief.

While all medical procedures carry inherent risks, serious complications from epidural injections are infrequent. Common side effects may include headache, nausea, and dizziness, while rarer complications could involve nerve damage, infection, or bleeding.

Overall, epidural injections offer an effective treatment avenue for back pain when conventional therapies like medication and physical therapy prove inadequate. For individuals grappling with chronic back pain, contact our pain clinic today to ascertain the suitability of epidural injections as a treatment option.