Epidural Steroid Injection

An epidural steroid injection (ESI) is an injection of a long lasting steroid in the epidural space (which is the area surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves coming out of it).

An ESI is used to reduce the inflammation or swelling in the epidural space. This may reduce the symptoms you are experiencing.

Before Your Procedure

• Certain medications may increase your risk of bleeding and may need to be held prior to your procedure.
• You may resume these medications the day after your procedure unless otherwise instructed.

During Your Procedure

• You will lie on your stomach on the X-ray table.
• Your skin is cleaned and a numbing medication will be given where the needle will be placed using X-ray guidance to ensure proper placement. You may feel some pressure in your back when the needle is inserted.
• A short acting anesthetic agent is injected for temporary pain relief (4-5 hours). A steroid is injected for longer pain relief, and begins working in 3-5 days.

After Your Procedure

• Avoid standing up quickly since the medications used may cause dizziness. If dizziness occurs, lie down or sit down until it resolves. If the dizziness persists, notify your doctor.
• You may resume your normal activities as tolerated.
• Notify your doctor of any signs of infection such as redness, swelling, tenderness or drainage from the site.
• Other symptoms to notify your doctor about are persistent headache, rigid neck or neck pain, new weakness in legs or loss of bowel or bladder control.
• Your doctor will be contacted with the results of your test and will discuss the results with you.