How Our Specialists Use Epidural Steroid Injections For Presurgical Planning
If you have back problems that leave you in constant pain, that is an indication that you need to see a doctor right away. There is no reason you should be living in pain, especially if it is decreasing your quality of life. When you can no longer perform your daily activities the way you used to, you should talk with our pain specialists at Florida Surgery Consultants in Bradenton, FL. You may need an epidural injection if you are experiencing an issue with your back. Do not let yourself continue to feel pain, make sure you see our specialist who may recommend an epidural steroid injection.
What Is An Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection is a combination of a corticosteroid with local anesthetic pain relief medication. Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that relieve swelling and inflammation, and in turn, the pressure will be taken off of your nerves and other tissues. This can be a major help in terms of finding pain relief. Local anesthetic medications provide immediate pain relief whereas corticosteroid medications take a little bit longer to have an effect. Within the spinal canal, an epidural steroid injection is performed in the space around the spinal cord and nerve roots. This epidural injection is commonly used to treat pain and inflammation from pressure at the spinal nerve roots.
These injections will not be tried unless your symptoms are causing lumbar spinal stenosis and your body has not reacted to nonsurgical treatments. Our goal is to try to be as minimally invasive as possible so we will not immediately jump to surgical options. Imaging may be done to have a better understanding of the injury and be able to see the root of the issue clearer. Steroid injections may help relieve your pain for around 2 to 3 weeks. Keep in mind that the injections will help relieve some of your pain but it will not cure spinal stenosis.
What Are The Risks of an Epidural Injection?
Just like with any medication, there are side effects. Although you may not feel any, a few side effects to watch out for include:
- Sleeping problems
- Anxiety
- Water retention
- Menstrual changes
These side effects are of the most common if you do experience them. There are risks associated with any type of injection or medication and you should be aware of all them beforehand. Our specialists will be able to inform you of all of the risks involved and you can decide together if an epidural steroid injection is right for you.