Understanding Epidural Injections: Your Comprehensive Guide

Epidural injections are more than just a tool for labor pain management. At Pain Medicine Consultants, we offer epidural steroid injections (ESIs) as part of our array of treatments in Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, and Corte Madera, CA. Let's delve into what these injections entail and when they might be the right option for you.

What Is an Epidural?

An epidural involves injecting medication into the epidural space around your spinal nerves. This medication can be either an anesthetic or a steroid. The goal is to alleviate pain or induce anesthesia in a specific region of your body, such as your legs or abdomen. Epidurals go by various names, including epidural anesthesia, epidural block, and neuraxial anesthesia.

How Does It Work?

Epidural anesthesia utilizes an anesthetic to numb spinal nerves, halting pain signals from reaching your brain. On the other hand, epidural steroid injections (ESIs) employ corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated nerves. By targeting the epidural space, these injections can provide temporary or long-term pain relief.

Who Performs Epidurals?

Certified professionals, such as anesthesiologists or certified registered nurse anesthetists, typically administer epidurals. These specialists undergo extensive training in pain management and anesthesia, ensuring safe and effective delivery of the injections. Our double board certified pain doctors and anesthesiologists at Pain Medicine Consultants are here to help you.

What Are Epidurals Used For?

Epidurals serve various purposes, including pain relief during labor, anesthesia for surgeries, and post-operative pain management. Additionally, epidural steroid injections are effective in managing chronic pain conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and sciatica.

Types of Epidurals

Epidurals can be categorized based on how medication is delivered. Options include single-injection epidurals, epidurals with catheters for continuous dosing, and epidurals with patient-controlled analgesia. Furthermore, there are specialized epidurals tailored for labor and childbirth, such as epidurals with catheters and combined spinal-epidurals (CSE).

Why Consider Epidurals?

For individuals experiencing acute or chronic pain, epidural injections offer a non-surgical treatment option. They can provide relief for conditions like sciatica, spinal stenosis, and bulging discs, often complementing other therapies like physical therapy and medication.

When to Seek Epidural Injections

If you've tried conservative treatments without success or are preparing for surgery, epidural injections may be a suitable option. Our specialists at Pain Medicine Consultants can assess your condition and determine whether epidurals align with your treatment plan.

Final Thoughts

Epidural injections can play a crucial role in pain management, offering relief and improving quality of life for many patients. If you're interested in learning more about epidurals and whether they're right for you, don't hesitate to reach out to our offices for a consultation.

For further inquiries or to schedule an appointment, contact us at our Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, or Corte Madera, CA locations. Let's work together towards finding the best solution for your pain relief needs.

FAQ

How long should you rest after epidural steroid injection?

• It's recommended to rest for the remainder of the day after the procedure, avoiding strenuous activities. Most individuals can resume normal activities the next day.

How painful is a lumbar epidural steroid injection?

• Discomfort during the injection is common but manageable. Your healthcare provider may use local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.

How many epidural steroid injections are safe in a lifetime?

• The safety limit varies depending on individual factors and the condition being treated. Your healthcare provider will assess your situation and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

What is an epidural steroid injection?

• An epidural steroid injection involves injecting a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space around the spinal nerves to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Why is pain worse after epidural steroid injection?

• Some individuals may experience temporary increased pain due to the needle insertion or irritation of tissues. This typically subsides within a few days.

How soon can I exercise after epidural steroid injection?

• It's advisable to avoid vigorous exercise for a few days after the injection. Your healthcare provider will provide specific guidance based on your condition.

What to do when epidural steroid injections don't work?

• If epidural steroid injections don't provide relief, alternative treatments such as physical therapy, medication adjustments, or surgical options may be considered.

What to expect after lumbar epidural steroid injection?

• You may experience temporary soreness at the injection site and a reduction in pain within a few days to weeks after the procedure.

How long do epidural steroid injections last?

• The duration of pain relief varies from individual to individual. Relief can last from a few days to several months, depending on the underlying condition.

Does insurance cover epidural steroid injections?

• Many insurance plans cover epidural steroid injections, but coverage may vary. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider for specific details.

How long does an epidural steroid injection last?

• The effectiveness of the injection can vary, with some individuals experiencing relief for several months, while others may find relief only lasts a few days or weeks.

Are epidural steroid injections FDA approved?

• Yes, epidural steroid injections are FDA approved for the treatment of certain conditions, including spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and radiculopathy.

Can I take ibuprofen after an epidural steroid injection?

• Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding medications following the injection. In some cases, ibuprofen may be recommended for pain relief.

How much do epidural steroid injections cost?

• The cost of epidural steroid injections can vary depending on factors such as location, healthcare provider, and insurance coverage. It's advisable to check with your provider and insurance company for cost details.

Why no heat after epidural steroid injection?

• Heat can increase inflammation at the injection site and interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. It's generally recommended to avoid heat therapy immediately following the injection.

Can you eat or drink before an epidural steroid injection?

• Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding fasting before the procedure. In many cases, fasting for a few hours before the injection is recommended to reduce the risk of complications.

How often can you get an epidural steroid injection?

• The frequency of epidural steroid injections depends on individual factors and the response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate interval between injections.

What are the long-term side effects of epidural steroid injections?

• Long-term side effects of epidural steroid injections are rare but may include spinal headache, infection, nerve damage, or allergic reaction. Your healthcare provider will discuss potential risks with you before the procedure.

How long for epidural steroid injection to work?

• The onset of pain relief can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience immediate relief, while others may notice improvement over several days or weeks following the injection.

Why is pain worse after cervical epidural steroid injection?

• Increased pain following a cervical epidural steroid injection may be due to temporary inflammation or irritation of the nerves in the cervical spine. This discomfort typically resolves within a few days.

Does an epidural steroid injection hurt?

• Discomfort during the injection is common but typically mild and temporary. Your healthcare provider may use local anesthesia to minimize pain during the procedure.

Does Medicare cover epidural steroid injections?

• Medicare coverage for epidural steroid injections depends on factors such as medical necessity and specific coverage policies. It's advisable to check with Medicare or your insurance provider for coverage details.

How long do epidural steroid injection side effects last?

• Side effects of epidural steroid injections, such as temporary soreness at the injection site or headache, typically resolve within a few days. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your healthcare provider immediately.

What is a transforaminal epidural steroid injection?

• A transforaminal epidural steroid injection is a specific type of epidural injection performed near the spinal nerve roots as they exit the spinal canal. It's commonly used to treat conditions such as radiculopathy or herniated discs.

Why can't you drive after an epidural steroid injection?

• Driving after an epidural steroid injection may not be safe due to potential side effects such as dizziness, weakness, or numbness in the legs. It's recommended to arrange for transportation home after the procedure.

Can I drink alcohol before an epidural steroid injection?

• Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding alcohol consumption before the procedure. In many cases, abstaining from alcohol for a certain period before the injection is recommended to reduce the risk of complications.

Do epidural steroid injections cause weight gain?

• Weight gain is not a common side effect of epidural steroid injections. However, corticosteroids used in the injections may cause fluid retention, leading to temporary weight gain in some individuals.

How to sleep after epidural steroid injection?

• Following the injection, it's advisable to sleep on your back or side with a pillow between your knees for comfort. Avoid putting pressure on the injection site to minimize discomfort.

What are side effects of epidural steroid injection?

• Side effects of epidural steroid injections may include temporary soreness at the injection site, headache, flushing, or changes in blood sugar levels. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your healthcare provider promptly.