These follow the same guidelines as articular injections as far as frequency. An epidural steroid injection is another category. Lumbar epidural injections are a relatively simple technique. Hey are done several inches from the spinal cord and are unlikely to be accompanied by complications except, perhaps a headache. Epidural steroid injections are useful for a variety of back conditions including sciatica, arthritis, degenerative disc problems, and spinal stenosis.
Some cortisone injections can be painful.
Injections into an area that is already inflamed are more sensitive. Some areas, such as the hand and foot are particularly sensitive and a freeze block is used before injection. Other areas, such as the knee and shoulder are only moderately uncomfortable. Cortisone shots are generally accompanied by an anesthetic such as Carbocaine or Lidocaine. For others, the sight of a needle will cause this reaction and the feeling of being faint is often misinterpreted as an allergic reaction.