Open Accessibility Menu
Hide

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

Relief for Radiating Pain

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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).

If you need help with your radiating chronic pain, please call (888) 615-2726 or contact American Pain Consortium to schedule a consultation.

Ongoing INNOVATION

We encourage creativity, improvement, and development with a willingness to learn from our adaptations, even those that are not successful.Together we make a difference by bringing new, meaningful ideas and by pursuing professional growth.

Campaign Content Image
Related Providers