Doctors often prescribe epidural steroid injections to those suffering from spinal injuries causing low back and neck pain radiating into the arms and legs. These injections reduce inflammation by injecting medicine directly into the affected area.
The injection consists of a corticosteroid and an anesthetic injected into the outside of the spinal column. Corticosteroids provide immediate relief, as well as long-lasting relief from inflammation. A saline injection may follow to flush the spinal column to eliminate inflammation-causing proteins.
The inflamed nerves causing extreme pain and discomfort are located in the space between the bone and the sac protecting the nerves in the spine. When inflamed, they put pressure on the nerves and nerve roots.
A doctor performs these procedures at their office or surgery center. A local anesthetic is applied, and X-ray guidance ensures the steroid reaches the correct area in the spine.