Back pain is one of the most common conditions in the United States, affecting over 8 % of adults. Epidural steroid injections are standard treatment options for lower back pain. Injections have been widely used in nonsurgical pain management strategies for decades and can offer excellent pain relief for those in need. Injections work by delivering steroid anti-inflammatory medications and local anesthetic to stressed nerves. Finding a pain solution that is right for you is vital in treating back pain.
Epidural treatments can be a game-changer buying weeks or months of effective pain control for those who suffer from sciatica, disc degeneration, spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and radiculitis. With the improvement of pain symptoms, many patients can avoid surgery and focus on rehabilitation.
The goals of an epidural steroid injection are to:
- Reduce inflammation around the nerve root
- Improve mobility
- Decrease pain to assist patient in physical therapy and rehabilitation program goals
- Improve ability to perform daily tasks
- Confirm origin of pain source
Epidural steroid injections are conservative treatments, often used alongside medications and physical therapy. Epidural steroid injections do not change the wear and tear in your spine but do decrease swelling in the spine, allowing for a herniated disc to heal. Epidural steroid injections can help you conquer your back and leg pain and return to an active lifestyle.
At The Spine Clinic of Oklahoma City, we value our patient's experience with spinal pain. Dr. Doug Beacham is a Board-Certified Anesthesiology & Pain Management doctor who will provide you with an in-depth exam of your spine, a complete history of your pain symptoms, any advanced diagnostic tests needed, and an individualized treatment plan to assist in your pain management.
Dr. Brett Braly is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal surgery. Dr. Braly is a leading advocate for minimally invasive techniques in spine surgery. Dr. Braly is named in the top "20 under 40" best spine surgeons by the North American Spine Society.
