It is used to treat radiating nerve pain from the low back, middle back, or neck.
The steroid suppresses the immune system and, by doing so, reduces inflammation and the associated pain.
A “pinched nerve” is the term commonly used to describe the condition.
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Traditionally, the shots were administered without any special equipment.
Transforaminal injections are those that enter the spine at a diagonal direction along the path of the nerve root.
Risks and Complications
Epidural steroid injections are relatively safe with a low risk of complications.
If this happens, fluid can leak out and cause a spinal headache.
As per its name, headache is the central symptom.
With the advent of X-ray-guided injections, the incidence of this has dropped dramatically.
Infection is also uncommon.
A hospital gown will be provided to change into.
Medication may be delivered to help you relax.
The skin will be cleaned with an antibacterial swab and injected with a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Once fully numb, the healthcare provider will insert the needle through the skin toward the spine.
A small amount of dye may be injected to verify the needle’s position on X-ray.
Finally, the cortisone will be delivered into the epidural space mixed with a mild anesthetic.
Post-Test
Once completed, the needle and IV line would be removed and the puncture wounds bandaged.
You would need to remain in the recovery room for around an hour.
If your vital signs check out, a friend can drive you home.
You would not be allowed to drive yourself.
These symptoms should wear off by the end of the day.
Call your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.
Epidural injections for back pain.
US National Library of Medicine.
A Systematic Review.Clin Orthop Relat Res.
2018;19(2):301-310. doi:10.3348/kjr.2018.19.2.301
Epidural Corticosteroid Injections.
