Epidural Steroid Injections

What are Epidural Steroid Injections?

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve pain caused by spinal inflammation, nerve compression, or degenerative conditions. By delivering a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal nerves, this treatment helps reduce swelling, relieve pain, and restore mobility.

ESIs are commonly used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease, potentially offering long-lasting relief and avoiding the need for surgery.

Epidural Steroid Injections at IntegraMed

Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections

  • Provides targeted pain relief by reducing inflammation around spinal nerves.
  • Minimally invasive with no downtime, allowing for a quick return to daily activities.
  • Can delay or prevent the need for surgery, offering a non-surgical alternative.
  • Improves mobility and function, helping patients stay active.
  • Customizable for different spinal conditions, treating pain in the neck, mid-back, or lower back, arms and legs.

Who is a Candidate?

Epidural steroid injections may be recommended for patients who:

  • Experience chronic back, neck, arm, or leg pain due to nerve compression.
  • Have conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis.
  • Need a non-surgical pain relief option before considering surgery.
  • Have not found relief with physical therapy, medications, or other conservative treatments.

How the Procedure Works

Epidural steroid injections are performed under local anesthesia with fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precision:

  1. A small needle is inserted into the epidural space near the irritated spinal nerve.
  2. A corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication) is injected, reducing inflammation and pain.
  3. The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes, and patients go home the same day.

Many patients experience relief within a few days, with effects lasting weeks to months, depending on the condition.

Recovery Expectations

  • Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
  • Pain relief typically begins within a few days, with maximum effect in one to two weeks.
  • Repeat injections may be needed, depending on the severity of the condition.
  • Physical therapy may be recommended to enhance and prolong pain relief.

Hear From Our Experts

“Epidural steroid injections provide fast, targeted relief for patients struggling with pain due to nerve compression. By reducing inflammation at the source, we help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life—without surgery.” – Dr. John E Britt

Take the First Step

If chronic neck, back or nerve pain is limiting your movement, epidural steroid injections may provide the relief you need to stay active and pain-free.
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