epidural steroid injections are a common treatment for back pain. They work by numbing the area around the spine where the pain is located. These injections are often given as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home right after the injection. However, there are some risks associated with epidural steroid injections. In this article, we will explore these risks and how to minimize them.
What are epidural steroid injections?
Epidural steroid injections are a type of medication used to relieve pain from conditions like chronic back pain, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. Epidural steroid injections work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the epidural space. This reduction in pain allows patients to enjoy more normal activities and reduce their reliance on painkillers.
Types of epidural steroid injections
Epidural steroid injections may be used to relieve pain from a variety of conditions. They are usually given as an outpatient procedure, and typically take about 30 minutes to complete. Epidural steroid injections are usually given into the back or neck region, but can also be administered in other parts of the body.
There are several types of epidural steroid injections that can be used for different purposes. These include: local numbing injections (LNI), systemic numbing shots (SNS), and intrathecal injection. LNI use a local anesthetic to reduce inflammation and pain while SNS injects a numbing agent directly into the spinal cord. Intrathecal injection delivers the steroid directly into the spinal canal, which is thought to provide more prolonged relief from pain.
Uses for epidural steroid injections
Epidural steroid injections can be used to relieve pain in a number of different ways. They can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, both of which can lead to less pain. Epidural steroid injections can also help to reduce the amount of discomfort someone feels during a procedure or during their recovery.
Side effects of epidural steroids
Epidural steroids can cause a variety of side effects, including:
Nausea and vomiting
Vomiting blood or black stools
Low blood pressure
Fainting or seizures
Muscle spasms or pain
When should you get an epidural steroid injection?
Epidural steroid injections may be indicated in the following circumstances:
-If labor is progressing slowly or not at all
-If the woman experiences severe pain, despite medications and positioning
-If there is a large diameter baby or if the cervix is low
-If there are complications with induction OR if forceps delivery has been considered but then decided against
Cost of epidural steroid injections
Epidural steroid injections are a common treatment for low back pain. They work by reducing inflammation and pain in the lower back. The cost of epidural steroid injections depends on the type of injection and where it is done. An epidural steroid injection at a doctor’s office can cost around $200. In contrast, an epidural steroid injection at a hospital may cost more than $1,000.