Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) in Branchburg, Somerset, Hillsborough and Watchung NJ
Effective Pain Relief with Epidural Steroid Injections in Somerset County New Jersey
Are you struggling with nagging pain, numbness, or tingling in your neck, back, arms, or legs? Is this discomfort stemming from a recent injury or a chronic condition like sciatica , herniated disc or spinal stenosis? If other treatments haven’t worked well, an epidural steroid injection (ESI) might provide long-lasting relief for your pain.
What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a procedure that delivers anti-inflammatory medication to the painful area of your spine. This can include your low back, mid-back, neck, arms, legs, or buttocks.
Skilled physicians use X-ray guidance to accurately target the affected area. This provides immediate and long-lasting pain relief. Our doctors use X-rays to find and treat the painful area, giving quick and lasting pain relief.
ESIs are a safe and effective treatment option when part of a comprehensive care plan. They’re well-tolerated, using a local anesthetic or under anesthesia at our ambulatory surgical center. The local anesthetic offers immediate, short-term relief, while the steroid medication provides longer-lasting pain reduction.
Epidural steroid injection are also commonly referred to as:
- ESI injection
- Spinal injection for back pain
- Back pain injection
- Epidural steroid shot
- Corticosteroid injection
- Steroid injection for the back
It is important to note, epidural steroid injections are not the same as epidural anesthesia or pain relief used during labor, childbirth, or surgeries.
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How effective are Epidural Steroid Injections?
ESIs work well for new or sudden nerve pain, and can also help with long-term conditions. We will assist you in determining if ESI is the best choice for your situation. We will then incorporate it into a treatment plan that focuses on the main cause of your pain. Performance Ortho treats the root cause of your pain, rather than just masking your symptoms.
When to get an Epidural Steroid Injection?
ESIs are great for treating sudden nerve pain flare-ups, providing quick relief. They can assist with chronic conditions. They are most effective when combined with physical therapy, other surgeries, and lifestyle adjustments. In other words, the Epidural will reduce your pain, while rehabilitation will address the root cause of the pain.
Could an Epidural Steroid Injection Be Right for You?
If you’re grappling with any of the following conditions, an ESI could be a potential solution:
- Facet joint sprain of the neck, mid back, and lower back: This occurs when the facet joints, which help stabilize the spine and allow for motion, become strained or sprained, leading to pain and inflammation.
- Facet arthropathy: This degeneration of the facet joints, often due to arthritis or wear and tear, can cause significant pain and restrict spinal movement.
- Arthritis of the spine: This inflammation and degeneration of the spinal joints can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
- Facet joint syndrome: This condition involves the degeneration or dysfunction of the facet joints, leading to pain, reduced range of motion, and stiffness in the back or neck.
- Spinal stenosis: This narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Degenerative disc disease: This age-related wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to pain and limited mobility.
- Spondylolisthesis: This slippage of one vertebra over another can pinch nerves and cause pain.
- Post-surgical back pain: ESIs can sometimes be used to manage pain that persists after back surgery.
Common Symptoms Addressed by an Epidural Steroid Injection
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, an ESI could provide relief:
- Pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or “pins and needles” sensations in the arms or legs
- Chronic neck pain
- Chronic upper back pain
- Chronic upper arm pain
- Chronic mid back pain
- Chronic lower back pain
- Chronic buttocks pain
- Chronic thigh pain
What are the potential side effects of an Epidural Steroid Injection?
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, they can have potential side effects. Here are some possible side effects:
Common Side Effects
- Pain at the Injection Site: Temporary discomfort or pain where the needle was inserted.
- Headache: Particularly if the dura mater (a protective layer around the spinal cord) is punctured.
- Increased Pain: Some patients might experience a temporary increase in pain before it subsides.
- Facial Flushing: A feeling of warmth and redness in the face and chest.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping, usually temporary.
- High Blood Sugar Levels: Particularly in diabetic patients.
- Increased Appetite: A possible side effect of the steroid medication.
Less Common Side Effects
- Infection: At the injection site or more rarely, deeper in the spine.
- Bleeding: Especially in patients with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners.
- Nerve Damage: Although rare, there can be nerve damage due to needle placement or the steroid itself.
- Dural Puncture: Leading to a spinal headache.
- Allergic Reaction: To the medication or contrast dye used during the procedure.
- Avascular Necrosis: Rarely, steroids can cause damage to bone tissue.
Why Choose Performance Ortho?
Our skilled orthopedic specialists collaborate to treat spine issues with a special team approach. Our team will help you understand and make informed medical decisions during your experience.
For over 20 years, Performance Ortho has helped 20,000 patients with spine and joint pain. We use advanced procedures and techniques to create personalized treatment plans based on your needs and goals. Caring for you during this journey is our top priority.
Schedule an appointment online or call our Patient Care Coordinators at 908-754-1960 to discuss whether spine surgery is the right solution for you. We have multiple convenient locations throughout NJ, so you can find the care you need close to home.