11/08/2021
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections for Low Back Pain and Sciatica
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a common treatment option for many forms of lower back pain and leg pain.
The goals of an epidural steroid injection are to:
* Control pain by reducing inflammation in and around the nerve roots
* Improve mobility and function in the lower back and legs
* Allow the patient to participate in and make progress with a comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation program
Potential Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections
* Reduce nerve pain and inflammation. Steroids decrease the production of inflammatory chemicals and reduce the sensitivity of nerve fibers to pain, generating fewer pain signals.
* Limit oral medication. Pain relief from these injections may help limit or eliminate the need for oral medications,some of which may have side effects when taken long-term.
* Continue or re-engage in physical therapy. This injection may provide sufficient pain relief to allow a patient to progress with a rehabilitative physical therapy program.
* Postpone surgery. Pain relief experienced from lumbar epidural steroid injections may help postpone surgery, and if physical therapy is effective, it may eliminate the need for surgical intervention.
