Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI)
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Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI)

Epidural

An Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive injection of corticosteroids into the epidural space that surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots to treat pain in the neck, arm, back and leg. Since drugs are delivered directly to the epidural space of the spine, it provides immediate pain relief. Pain relief may last for few days or even years.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?

If you have pain in the neck, arm, back, or leg, that prevents you from actively participating in normal activities or exercise and physical therapy programs, you may benefit from ESI. You may not be a good candidate for ESI if you have an active infection, bleeding disorder, or allergies to any medications used in the procedure.

Epidural Steroid Injections are used to treat a variety of health issues including, but not limited to:

  • Neck Pain
  • Headaches/Migraines
  • Herniated Discs
  • Degenerative Disc Diseases
  • Radiculopathy or radiculitis
  • Spinal Stenosis
  • Sciatica

BENEFITS?

  • Provides immediate pain relief. If relief is mild, a series of 3 injections with 2-week intervals is recommended for maximum relief.
  • Reduces or eliminates the need for pain medications.
  • Reduced pain and increased mobility allow for active participation in exercise or physical therapy programs aimed at preventing future pain episodes.
  • Although duration of pain relief varies, it could last for years.

RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS

Include but not limited to:

  • Slight bruising at the injection site
  • Post-procedure headaches
  • Lightheadedness/Dizziness immediately following the procedure

GOOD TO KNOW INFO

  • A series of 3 injections with 2-week intervals in between for maximum relief (no more than 4 injections in a 6-month time frame)
  • It may take up to 24-72 hours to take effect and up to 1 week for maximum effect

EXPECTATIONS DURING VISIT

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE
  • Copayments collected/Consent forms signed
  • Medical History Reviewed
  • Vital Signs taken/ patient prepped

DURING THE PROCEDURE

The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
  • You will by laying face down on the X-Ray table (with pillows for comfort and positioning)
  • Your neck will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution
  • Anesthetics may be given to help with discomfort
  • Provider will use an X-Ray machine to guide the needle into your back. *** It is normal to feel cold and some pressure in your neck, upper back and arms
  • The cortisone (steroid) is the injected into your back around the affected area. ***You may feel pressure during this time
  • Upon completion, the needle will be taken out and the injection site will be dressed

AFTER THE PROCEDURE
  • You will be brought to a recovery area and monitored for 10-15 minutes
  • A Follow-Up appointment will be scheduled
  • You will be discharged