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Epidural Steroid Injections

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What happens during a lumbar epidural steroid injection procedure?

Lumbar epidural steroid injections are very precise, so healthcare providers performing the injection must have significant specialized training. You will likely have your lumbar epidural steroid injection in a hospital or an outpatient clinic. In most cases, a lumbar ESI takes 15 to 30 minutes. It’s important to be very still during this procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a lumbar epidural steroid injection take to work?

Your pain may become worse for two or three days after your lumbar ESI before it begins to improve. Epidural steroid injections start working within two to seven days, and the pain relief can last several days to a few months or longer.

How do I prepare for a lumbar epidural steroid injection?

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions about what you need to do to prepare for your ESI injection. Be sure to follow their instructions. Your provider may:
- Limit your eating or drinking (fast) for a certain amount of time before your lumbar ESI.
- Adjust certain medications you’re taking, especially blood thinner medications.
- Request an MRI or CT scan of your back before your lumbar ESI to help determine the exact area that needs to be treated.
- Make sure you have someone with you to drive you home if you’re going to take a sedative for your lumbar ESI.

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