An Epidural For Back Pain
Low back pain is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide, ranging from a minor inconvenience to a debilitating condition affecting daily life. For some, surgery may be the only option to alleviate the pain and discomfort. However, non-surgical options can help many people avoid the risks and complications associated with surgery. An epidural steroid injection is an outpatient procedure that can offer significant relief.
Straight to the source
An epidural for lower back pain involves injecting a steroid or corticosteroid medication into the epidural space of the spinal cord, the area between the vertebral wall and the dura mater membrane. The medication is injected directly into the area where the nerve roots are located, helping reduce inflammation and pain.
How do steroid injections work?
People with low back pain caused by a herniated disc or other degenerative spine conditions are typically good candidates for an epidural steroid injection. The spine conditions can cause inflammation and compression of the nerve roots, resulting in pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. The goal of the injection is to reduce the inflammation and pressure on the nerve roots, thus reducing pain and other symptoms.
What to expect
Epidural steroid injections are typically performed in an outpatient setting, meaning the patient receives treatment and then goes home the same day. The procedure is generally done with the patient awake or under light sedation. Before the injection is given, the skin and tissue around the injection site are numbed with a local anesthetic.
Recovery outlook
After the injection, the patient may experience some pain and discomfort at the injection site, but the discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication. Sometimes, the patient may experience increased pain or symptoms for a few days after the injection, but the pain is usually temporary. The benefits of an epidural steroid injection can be seen within a few days, but the full effects may take up to 2 weeks to be noticed. Many people experience a significant reduction in pain and other symptoms, and some may even be able to avoid back surgery altogether.
Who qualifies?
Although epidurals can offer significant pain relief, not every individual is a good candidate for injections. Some people may experience only temporary relief or need multiple injections to maintain the benefits. Also, epidural steroid injections are not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as infections or bleeding disorders. Always discuss the risks and benefits with a healthcare professional before undergoing the procedure.
Get back into action
An epidural steroid injection can be an effective treatment option for many people suffering from low back pain caused by a herniated disc or other degenerative conditions of the spine. The injection can help to reduce inflammation and pressure on the nerve roots, resulting in a reduction of pain and other symptoms. Get back into action with the help of an epidural.
