What are Epidural Steroid Injections?

Epidural steroid injections involve injecting a combination of medication, typically a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic, into the epidural space. The epidural space is a fatty area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. The corticosteroid medication helps reduce inflammation around the nerve roots, which can be a significant source of pain. The local anesthetic provides short-term pain relief while the corticosteroid works to reduce inflammation.

Conditions Treated with Epidural Steroid Injections at Ishaan Ortho & Spine:

• Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner part of the disc between your vertebrae bulges or leaks out, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain.
• Spinal stenosis: This condition involves narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness.
• Sciatica: This radiating pain down the leg is often caused by a pinched nerve in the lower back due to disc herniation or stenosis.
• Facet joint arthritis: Inflammation of the facet joints in the spine can cause pain and stiffness in the back.

Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections:

• Targeted pain relief: Medication is delivered directly to the inflamed area, providing effective relief for pain caused by nerve compression.
• Minimally invasive procedure: Injections are performed on an outpatient basis (Day Care) with minimal discomfort.
• Reduced inflammation: Corticosteroids can significantly reduce inflammation around the nerve roots, alleviating pain and promoting healing.
• Improved mobility: By reducing pain and inflammation, injections can help you regain mobility and function.
• Potential to delay surgery: In some cases, epidural steroid injections can help manage pain and postpone the need for surgery.

What to Expect During an Epidural Steroid Injection at Ishaan Ortho & Spine:

1. Consultation: Dr. Subodh M Shetty will discuss your pain symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination to determine if an epidural steroid injection is the right approach for you. X-rays or other imaging tests may be recommended for a more precise diagnosis.
2. Preparation: The area to be injected will be cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthetic may be applied to numb the injection site and minimize discomfort.
3. Fluoroscopy Guidance: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), Dr. Shetty will carefully guide a thin needle into the epidural space near the affected nerve root.
4. Injection: The medication is then injected into the epidural space. The entire procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes.
5. Recovery: Epidural steroid injections are Day Care procedures, and you can usually resume most activities after the injection. Dr. Shetty will provide specific instructions regarding rest, icing, and any limitations on movement.

Following Epidural Steroid Injections:

• You may experience some mild soreness or discomfort at the injection site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
• It may take a few days for the full effect of the injection to become apparent as the medication works to reduce inflammation.
• Depending on the severity of your condition, a series of injections may be recommended, spaced a few weeks apart.
• It is important to follow Dr. Shetty’s instructions regarding rest and physical therapy exercises to optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.

Are Epidural Steroid Injections Right for You?

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Subodh M Shetty at Ishaan Ortho & Spine in Bangalore to discuss your pain and explore if epidural steroid injections can offer targeted relief. Our Day Care services provide a convenient and effective approach to managing pain and improving your quality of life.