When you’re in pain, you want relief. And that’s why epidurals are so popular. They provide fast and effective relief from a wide range of conditions and injuries. But what is an epidural steroid injection, and how is it done? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of epidural steroid injections and what they can do for you.
What is an epidural steroid injection?
Epidural steroid injections are a type of pain relief in which steroids are injected into the epidural space just above the spinal cord. Steroid injections can provide significant relief from intense chronic pain, and are often used to treat conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Epidural steroid injections require a physician’s consultation and typically take between 30 minutes and an hour to complete.
How does an epidural steroid injection work?
Epidural steroid injections are a type of pain relief medication that is injected into the epidural space in the spine. Epidural steroid injections work by reducing inflammation and pain throughout the body. They are most often used to treat back pain, but can also be used to relieve other types of pain, such as neck pain or headaches.
Side effects of epidural steroid injections
Epidural steroid injections are a type of pain relief that use an injection of a local anesthetic and steroids into the epidural space. The epidural space is found between the spinal cord and the dura mater, the tough protective membrane that covers the spinal cord. Epidural steroid injections can provide short-term relief from chronic pain, mostly due to arthritis or back pain. They can also be used for post-operative pain, during labor and delivery, or for headaches.
Side effects of epidural steroid injections can depend on a number of factors, including the type of epidural steroid injection used and how much is injected. Some common side effects include:
• decreased sensation in the area where the injection was made
• numbness or tingling in the area where the injection was made
• headache
• nausea
• increased blood pressure
What to expect after receiving an epidural steroid injection
The person receiving the epidural steroid injection will be lying down on their back with their legs bent. The doctor will put a needle in the upper part of the spinal cord (atlas) and inject the steroid.