Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

Our team will help position you to make sure the procedure can be completed with the least amount of discomfort for you. The skin is cleansed with a sterilizing solution (chlorhexidine) and a sterile drape is placed. A local anesthetic medication typically (Lidocaine) is given to numb the skin. Next, fluoroscopy (x-ray) or ultrasound is used to find the target. A thin needle is directed to the desired location. Contrast dye may be injected to confirm the correct placement of the needle. A local anesthetic and/or steroids are then injected. During the entire procedure you will be constantly monitored by our team. After the injection a small bandage is placed on your skin. You will be given time to make sure you feel good and are not having side-effects before leaving the clinic.

The injection includes a combination of anesthetic (lidocaine or bupivacaine) and steroid (cortisone, Kenalog or dexamethasone). The local anesthetic will be responsible for the immediate relief and the steroid will give you the more long-term relief.

It can take up to a week for the steroid medicine to reduce pain and inflammation. Our team will follow-up with you and determine any future injections.