Epidural Steroid Injection

Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections are a safe, minimally invasive treatment commonly used to relieve chronic back and neck pain. Performed in an outpatient setting, this procedure involves the precise insertion of a small needle into the epidural space—the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. A long-acting corticosteroid is then injected to reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve-related pain.

What makes epidural steroid injections effective is their ability to target only the nerves responsible for pain, without affecting those that control sensation like touch or pressure. By calming inflammation around irritated nerves, this treatment can significantly improve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term function.

At Cellara Pain Institute, our board-certified pain specialists utilize advanced imaging techniques for accuracy and safety, ensuring you receive targeted relief with minimal downtime.

Did You Know?

The epidural space is the area that surrounds the spinal cord and is filled with fat and fluid that help cushion and protect the spine and spinal nerves. This space plays a critical role in the transmission of nerve signals throughout the body.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Am I a candidate for an epidural steroid injection?

If you’re experiencing chronic pain from conditions such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, sciatica, or a pinched nerve, an epidural steroid injection may be a treatment option for you. Typically, this procedure is recommended after more conservative approaches—like physical therapy—have failed to provide relief.

Your physician will evaluate your medical history and the intensity of your symptoms to determine whether this treatment is suitable. However, certain conditions—such as uncontrolled diabetes, clotting disorders, active infections, allergies to anesthesia, or specific medications—may make some individuals ineligible.

To find out if epidural steroid injections are the right solution for you, book a consultation with one of our pain management experts at Cellara Pain Institute.

What to Expect During an Epidural Spinal Injection

During an epidural steroid injection, you may feel mild discomfort as the local anesthetic is administered to numb the injection site. Fortunately, this is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed on an outpatient basis.

After numbing the area, your doctor will use fluoroscopy—a specialized real-time X-ray—to guide the needle precisely into the epidural space. A small amount of contrast dye is first injected to confirm proper placement and ensure the medication will distribute effectively. Once verified, a long-acting steroid is delivered through a small needle directly into the epidural space.

The entire process usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and patients are able to return home the same day.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Cellara Pain Institute.

What to Expect After an Epidural Spine Injection

Following the injection, many patients experience immediate pain relief—primarily due to the effects of the local anesthetic. However, the steroid medication typically begins working within 2 to 5 days.

While the pain relief can last for several months, the effects are not permanent. Depending on your condition and response to treatment, your provider at Cellara Pain Institute may recommend additional injections over time to help manage chronic pain and maintain your comfort.