# Epidural Steroid Injections

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/epidural-steroid-injections/
- Published: 2019-02-13T20:50:42-05:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

# Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC

 [Contact Us](https://carolinaona.com/contact-locations/)

### **Injections for Back Pain in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC**

An epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive procedure that can help
relieve neck, arm, back, and leg pain caused by inflamed spinal nerves. The effects
of ESI tend to be temporary, with pain relief lasting for several days to several
years. Our goal at Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) is to
reduce pain so you may resume normal activities.

## **What is an Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI)?**

An epidural steroid injection is a non-surgical treatment for [back pain](https://carolinaona.com/back-pain/)
that includes both a corticosteroid (e.g., triamcinolone, betamethasone) and an 
anesthetic numbing agent (e.g., lidocaine, bupivacaine). The drugs are delivered
into the spine’s epidural space, between the spinal cord’s protective covering (
dura) and the bony vertebrae.

Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and are effective when delivered
directly into the painful area. There are three ways an ESI can be performed: transforaminal,
interlaminar, or caudal. The right type of injection depends on your condition and
which procedure will likely produce the best results and the fewest side effects.
Fluoroscopy (X-ray) is ALWAYS used to ensure both safety and accuracy.

## **What Conditions Benefit from an Epidural Steroid Injection?**

Some common conditions that can benefit from an epidural steroid injection include:

 * Joint cysts
 * Spinal stenosis
 * [Spondylolysis](https://carolinaona.com/orthopedic-spine-surgery/spondylosis/)
 * [Bone spurs](https://carolinaona.com/bone-spurs/)
 * [Herniated discs](https://carolinaona.com/orthopedic-spine-surgery/herniated-disc/)

If you suffer from intense pain in your arms or legs from inflamed spinal nerves,
it may be [time to consult a CONA spine specialist](https://carolinaona.com/back-pain-101-when-its-time-to-see-a-spine-specialist/)
in South Carolina for more information. Can’t wait? Visit one of our orthopedic[ urgent care walk-in clinics](https://carolinaona.com/orthopedic-urgent-care/)
to be seen immediately.

## **What Happens During an Epidural Steroid Injection?**

On the day of your appointment, plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled 
appointment time. We recommend you eat something light before your appointment unless
sedation will be used. It is essential to arrange a ride to and from the office 
for the procedure. During the 15-30 minute procedure, our [top-rated South Carolina doctors](https://carolinaona.com/physicians-staff/)
will utilize fluoroscopy to ensure the correct needle placement before delivering
medication to each facet joint.

## **What Should I Expect After an Epidural Steroid Injection?**

Most patients can leave the office after a short period of observation. Typically,
patients resume total activity the next day, although we recommend ‘taking it easy’
for 2-3 days after the procedure. Soreness around the injection site may be relieved
with ice and a mild analgesic like Tylenol. 

Patients may resume taking all medications immediately after the procedure. Generally,
epidural steroid injections begin to work within 3 or 4 days, although it may take
as long as seven days for the steroid to start working. Most patients experience
pain relief from the injection lasting 3-4 months. More importantly, the timing 
of injections should coincide with the start of [physical therapy](https://carolinaona.com/physical-therapy/)
to strengthen the back muscles and prevent future pain.

## **What are the Risks of an Epidural Steroid Injection?**

ESI is generally safe. Serious complications are rare, especially when using proper
safety techniques such as fluoroscopy. The potential risks associated with inserting
the needle include:

 * Spinal headache from a dural puncture 
 * Bleeding 
 * Infection
 * Allergic reaction
 * Elevated blood pressure
 * Nerve damage/paralysis (rare)
 * Death (rare) 

Corticosteroid risks and side effects may include:

 * Weight gain 
 * Water retention
 * Hot flashes
 * Mood swings
 * Insomnia
 * Elevated blood sugar levels in people with diabetes 

ESI should NOT be performed on people who have an infection, are pregnant, or have
bleeding problems. Please [contact us](https://carolinaona.com/appointment-request-form/)
to share any concerns you may have about your procedure.

## **Back Pain Relief in South Carolina**

You don’t have to continue to suffer from back pain. [Book an appointment](https://carolinaona.com/appointment-request-form/)
online to learn more about epidural steroid injection in South Carolina and find
out if it is right for you.