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Epidural Steroid Injection

Overview

These injections treat pain that is caused by pressure on a spinal nerve. Herniated or bulging discs can irritate or put pressure on these nerves. Patients experiencing this often feel pain starting in their back and spreading down their leg, or starting in their neck and spreading down their arm.

The procedure

Using an X-ray, the doctor guides a needle into the epidural space (near the spinal nerves, but not in the spinal cord). The doctor then gives the patient a local anesthetic and a steroid. These injections are more effective than taking steroids by mouth, and result in fewer side effects.

Most patients do not need to be sedated for this procedure, but they can discuss that option with their doctor.

Patients having an epidural steroid injection should not eat on the day of their procedure and will need a driver to take them home.