Epidural Injections

The epidural space is the part of the nervous system surrounding the nerves as they exit from the spinal cord. An injection of medication into this space is called an epidural injection. Epidural injections can be performed in the neck (cervical epidural) or in the lower back (lumbar epidural). The purpose of the injection is to alleviate pain coming from inflamed or irritated nerves by placing a mixture of local anesthetic and steroid medication around the nerve. your doctor uses a very precise technique, utilizing a special X-ray machine called a fluoroscopy unit, to place the medication in the most effective location in the spine.

Depending on your type of pain, your anatomy, and other factors, your doctor will perform an interlaminar, caudal, or transforaminal epidural injection. These types of epidural injections are most helpful for pain that radiates from the back into the buttocks or legs; however, at times they can be helpful for back pain as well.

Once you have checked in at the center, an IV will be started. This will allow your doctor to give you relaxing medications, if needed, during the procedure. In addition, your doctor will anesthetize the area in which he is working with local anesthetics.

your doctor will try to make the procedure as least uncomfortable as possible for you. If you are experiencing any discomfort during the procedure, do not hesitate to let your doctor know. He will then add more medication to your IV, use more local anesthetic, or redirect the needle to a less sensitive location.

Prior to the injection you will fill out several questionnaires regarding your pain. It is imperative that you inform your doctor or his Nurse about any allergies you might have to X-ray dye. You must stop taking any blood-thinning medication or aspirin-containing medicines for 2-7 days prior to the injection.

You may take all of your usual pain medications before the procedure. Please do not eat or drink for at least 4 hours prior to your scheduled appointment. Arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital following the procedure.

After the injection, you will remain at the center for about 30 minutes, so the Nurse can check your response to the injection. Sometimes there is immediate pain relief; other times it takes 24-48 hours to experience an effect. Some patients experience a flare-up of pain in the first day or two. Discomfort at the injection site usually responds to ice and/or over-the-counter analgesics such as Tylenol. You should have a follow-up visit scheduled to see your doctor in 1-2weeks after the injection, so that he can monitor your response and arrange for appropriate continued care of your pain.

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