An epidural steroid injection relieves pain by reducing the inflammation of irritated nerves within the spinal canal. An epidural steroid injection is very safe; its potential benefits include decreased pain, decreased numbness and/or tingling, and increased mobility. As with any procedure, there are risks involved, such as infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and worsened pain. There are also possible side effects relating to the steroid itself including blood sugar increases, weight gain, water retention, and suppression of the body’s production of cortisone.The procedure is performed at an outpatient surgery center. Usually, patients are mildly sedated for the procedure. During the injection of steroid, you may feel slight discomfort from the pressure effects of the injected solution. After the procedure is over, you will be taken to the recovery area for approximately 30 minutes before being discharged.Afterward, there may be some slight discomfort from the mechanical process of needle insertion or from pressure effects from the solution. The procedure is typically well tolerated, and most patients can resume their normal activities the next day. The steroid takes approximately one to two days to take effect and it is common for it to take two or three epidural steroid injections to obtain the greatest benefit.