Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

A Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection is designed to reduce pain that occurs in the lower back or that radiates through the legs. The steroid medication helps to reduce the swelling and inflammation that result from spinal conditions.

The procedure begins with a patient resting on his/her stomach with a cushion positioned underneath the stomach. Not only does the cushion provide comfort, it also helps to flex the spine and open up the epidural space for easier access. The vertebrae and nerve root are identified, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the surrounding tissue.

A larger needle is then inserted into the epidural space and a contrast solution is injected enabling the physician to identify the painful area. Finally, a steroid-anesthetics mix is injected to soothe the irritated nerve root.