What are epidural steroid injections?
Epidural steroid injections deliver medications directly into the epidural space of your spine — the area between your vertebrae and the dura sac that protects your spinal cord and nerves.
The medications in the injection include an anesthetic to numb nerve pain and a steroid to reduce inflammation.
Why would I need epidural steroid injections?
You might be a candidate for minimally invasive epidural steroid injections if you have chronic pain in your back, neck, arm, or leg from conditions like:
- Sciatica
- Herniated disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
Dr. Chunduri might use this treatment if you can’t find pain relief with oral medications or physical therapy. He provides on-site diagnostic testing to identify the underlying cause of your pain and reviews your medical history to determine if you’re a candidate for epidural steroid injections.
What’s involved in epidural steroid injections?
During your epidural steroid injection, you lie comfortably on an exam table. Dr. Chunduri uses fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray technology, to view your spine during the injection. This ensures he can deliver the medications into your spine with a high level of precision.
It’s common to feel some discomfort during the injection, especially some pressure at the injection site.
You’ll need a brief period of recovery after your injection before you can go home. Because the treatment can cause weakness in your legs or arms, someone will need to drive you.
How long does it take to see the results of epidural steroid injections?
Some people experience noticeable pain relief soon after an epidural steroid injection. However, it can take several days for the medications to reduce inflammation before you can see the full benefit of your treatment.
Depending on the severity of your condition, the injection might provide weeks or months of pain relief. To help improve the strength of your spine, Dr. Chunduri can recommend physical therapy after your injection.
If you still have pain after your initial injection, Dr. Chunduri can determine if you would benefit from additional injections spaced several weeks apart.
To find out if epidural steroid injections are right for you, schedule a consultation online or by calling Advanced Spine & Pain Specialists today.
