An epidural steroid injection places anti-inflammatory medication into the space around irritated spinal nerves. It’s commonly considered for pain that starts in the back or neck and travels into the leg or arm, such as sciatica. The goal is to calm inflammation so pain eases and you can move and rehabilitate more comfortably.
Your spinal cord and the nerves that branch from it are surrounded by a protective layer called the epidural space. When a disc bulges, a disc herniates or the spinal canal narrows, nearby nerves can become inflamed. That inflammation can cause pain, tingling or numbness that follows the path of the nerve.
An epidural injection delivers a corticosteroid, often combined with a local anesthetic, directly into that space.
It doesn’t repair a disc or reverse arthritis. Its role is to reduce inflammation and pain, which can create a window for physical therapy and a return to daily activities.
Pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg.
Learn about low back pain
Disc material that presses on or irritates a nearby nerve root.
Narrowing of the spinal canal that can crowd the nerves.
Nerve irritation in the neck that can cause pain, tingling or numbness in the arm.
Learn about low neck pain
Age-related disc changes that may contribute to nerve irritation.
Your provider will determine whether it’s right for you after an evaluation.
An epidural injection may not be appropriate if you have an active infection, a bleeding disorder, uncontrolled diabetes or certain allergies, or if you’re pregnant. Your provider will determine whether it’s right for you after an evaluation.
Your provider reviews your imaging, medications and health history. If you take blood thinners, you’ll receive instructions before the procedure.
The skin is cleaned and numbed. The needle is placed with imaging guidance and the medication is delivered into the epidural space.
You rest briefly and go home the same day. Pain may return for a few days before the steroid starts working. Your provider will explain follow-up.
Depending on your health and diagnosis, possible side effects may include:
Call our office if you develop a fever, a severe or worsening headache, increasing pain, or new weakness or numbness after the procedure.
Seek emergency care right away if you lose control of your bladder or bowels, have sudden severe weakness, have trouble breathing, or notice swelling of the face or throat.
Many insurance plans cover epidural steroid injections when they’re medically necessary. Some require prior authorization. Our team can help you verify your benefits before your visit.
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The skin is numbed first, so most people feel pressure and brief discomfort rather than sharp pain. Your provider can explain what to expect for your procedure.
It varies from person to person. Some people notice relief for weeks or months, and others notice less benefit. Your provider will review your response at follow-up.
It depends on your diagnosis and how you respond. Steroid injections are usually limited in how often they’re given, and your provider will discuss a plan with you.
No. Both reach the epidural space, but a childbirth epidural provides continuous numbing during labor. An epidural steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication to calm irritated nerves.
If back, neck or leg pain is holding you back, an evaluation can clarify whether an epidural steroid injection or another option fits your diagnosis.
