Spinal Epidural Injection

By James Perry, DO

What is a Spinal Epidural Steroid Injection?

The quick answer is that a Spinal Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive treatment for the spine.  It is more invasive than physical therapy or oral meds.  The injection can help to decrease the need for spinal surgery in some patients.  They can also allow patients to participate in therapy more effectively.

 

Spinal Epidural Injections may be used to treat pain or radiating symptoms from the spine.  Some common reasons and causes that are treated with ESI are:

• Disc issues
• Stenosis
• Spondylosis

What can I Expect with an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An ESI is performed in a procedure room using X-ray guidance.  The doctor will discuss the risks and benefits before the procedure.  Patients need to have someone drive them to and from the procedure.  They should also plan to go home afterward and rest for the remainder of the day.

How Many Injections Can I Have?

The quick answer is that you can receive 3 injections in the same spot over a 12 month period. Results may vary. It is common for our patients to get 1-2 Epidural Spinal Injections (ESI) per year.  Most report that this keeps their symptoms well controlled.

Spinal Injections help to keep more invasive treatments such as spinal surgery on the back burner.  But, injections can also help us to determine the appropriate surgical procedure if needed.

 

If you would like to learn more about Spinal Injections, read this ARTICLE on Spinal Epidural Steroid Injections by Dr. James Perry.

To learn more about Robotic Spine Surgery, please read this article.

JOI offers ASAP Fracture and Injury Services so that patients can be scheduled and seen quickly.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Perry, Call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online, or click the link below.