What Are Epidural Steroid Injections?
Epidural steroid injections send corticosteroids directly to your pinched nerve within the epidural space一this space is located in the surroundings of the bones and discs of the spinal cord. Once injected, it can significantly reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the irritated nerve. In some cases, the hurting sensation can be permanently resolved, but for patients with a chronic condition, the relief can last from three to six months.
Some of the most common anti-inflammatory medications used in this procedure are:
Their usage and dose depends on the condition of the patient, how they respond to injection, the targeted area and the epidural approach.
How They Work
An epidural steroid treatment works by sending a strong anti-inflammatory medication (mentioned above) to the targeted area in your spine. Besides steroids, these injections can include local anesthetics and saline, which can vary in volume and concentration. Normally, these injections for pain management are administered with X-ray guidance to ensure it is correctly done.
What Are They Used For?
Epidural steroid injections can be perceived as an effective nonsurgical treatment for multiple health concerns, as it eases the pain without the need for an invasive approach. Using this procedure can be effective for the conditions mentioned below:
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Sciatica
Although sciatica is not a disease in itself, it may be a severe symptom of an underlying issue that damages the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the human body. When it’s compacted or irritated, sciatica flares up and causes an aching pain in the patient.
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Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is caused by the narrowing of a space within your lumbar spine. When the space gets reduced, it doesn’t make room for your spinal nerve roots, leading to them becoming irritated and causing low back pain. With an epidural injection, you can reduce your nerve root irritation.
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Herniated Disc
Your spine has discs that are soft, with a gel texture in the middle and a firm outer layer, that can weaken over time or due to an injury, leading to cracking. When the inner soft substance spills through the cracks in one of the disks between two vertebrae, it causes a lumbar herniated disc.
For first-time patients, epidural steroid injections can permanently resolve the pain caused by this condition, and for those with chronic disc herniations, the relief can last for six months.
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Find Epidural Steroid Injections in Watkinsville, Georgia
Epidural steroid injections can be the solution for your chronic back pain, whether it comes from having sciatica or a herniated disc. It provides relief while also being a safe, non-invasive option that reduces the risk of needing a surgical intervention.
For those in Watkinsville or Loganville, GA, who want to return to their daily routine without feeling back pain, At Arch Orthopedic and Spine, Dr. Callaway, a certified spine surgeon with a minimally invasive approach to his patients’ concerns, can help. Book your appointment today to take care of your spine health.
