When you have back pain, it’s natural to reach for the prescription pills or the surgery. But sometimes, those options are not available or may not be the best option for you. In that case, you may want to consideroptions like lumbar epidural steroid injection. In this blog post, we’ll answer some common questions about this treatment and what to expect after it. We’ll also discuss the potential risks and benefits of this therapy so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it’s the best option for you.
What is a lumbar epidural steroid injection?
A lumbar epidural steroid injection is a procedure that is used to relieve pain from a spinal cord injury. During the injection, a small amount of a steroid is injected into the area around the spine where the pain is being experienced. The steroid helps to decrease inflammation in the spinal cord and surrounding tissues. This treatment can be very effective in relieving pain and improving mobility.
What are the benefits of a lumbar epidural steroid injection?
There are many benefits of a lumbar epidural steroid injection, including improved pain relief and reduced inflammation. Additionally, the injection can improve your ability to move and function as normal. Here are some specific benefits:
Improved Pain Relief
A lumbar epidural steroid injection can provide significant relief from pain in the lower back, neck, and legs. This is due to the injections’ ability to reduce inflammation and swelling in these areas. In some cases, the injection may be all you need to achieve optimal pain relief.
Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is often associated with pain and disability. A lumbar epidural steroid injection can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the lower back area. This can result in decreased pain and improved mobility.
Improved Functioning
Many people experience significant improvement in their ability to function after a lumbar epidural steroid injection. This is due to the injections’ ability to reduce inflammation and swelling in critical areas of the body. In some cases, people may even be able to return to work or school soon after treatment.
What are the risks of a lumbar epidural steroid injection?
There are a few risks associated with lumbar epidural steroid injection, but they are generally considered to be relatively minor. Potential risks include:
-Nerve damage: Epidural steroid injections can injure nearby nerves, which may cause temporary numbness or weakness in the area.
-Infection: The injected steroid can increase your risk of infection, especially if it enters your bloodstream.
-A stroke: Lumbar epidural steroids can raise your risk of having a stroke, particularly if you have high blood pressure or other health conditions that increase your risk of stroke.
How do I prepare for a lumbar epidural steroid injection?
If you are scheduled for a lumbar epidural steroid injection, your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on what to do before the injection. You should avoid strenuous activity the day before the injection and remain as still as possible during the procedure. If you have any questions about preparing for your lumbar epidural steroid injection, speak with your doctor.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after my lumbar epidural steroid injection?
After your lumbar epidural steroid injection, you will likely stay in the hospital for a few hours. Your doctor may keep you overnight for observation if you experience any concerning symptoms.
What are the post-injection instructions?
If you have received a lumbar epidural steroid injection, follow these post-injection instructions:
1. Immediately after the injection, take pain relief medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
2. Drive or walk to an emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms: headache, back pain that does not go away, fever higher than 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea or vomiting.
3. If you develop any of the following symptoms after your lumbar epidural steroid injection: blurred vision, increased sweating, decreased urination or bowel movements, severe dizziness or lightheadedness; seek immediate medical attention.