An epidural is a type of injection that is given to pregnant women during labor in order to ease the pain of childbirth. An epidural injection is a minimally invasive procedure that can be an effective treatment for pain in the lower back, legs, and buttocks. Epidural injections are most commonly used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. The goal of an epidural injection is to deliver a steroid medication directly to the inflamed area in order to reduce pain and inflammation. The medication is typically injected into the epidural space, which is the area outside of the dura mater (the innermost layer of the meninges).
Epidural injections are generally safe and have a low risk of complications. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects associated with epidural injections.
How Does an Epidural Injection Work?
During an epidural injection, your physician at Pain Institute of Georgia will use a small needle to inject a steroid medication into the epidural space. This medication is intended to reduce inflammation and swelling in the spinal column, which can help alleviate pain. The procedure may be performed under general anesthesia or with a local anesthetic to numb the area around the injection site. Your doctor will determine the best approach based on your individual needs and medical history.
Once the medication has been injected, your healthcare provider will monitor you for a short period of time to ensure that you do not experience any adverse reactions. Epidural injections can provide significant relief for back pain and related conditions, but the effects are not permanent. You may need to undergo multiple injections over time to maintain the benefits.
What to Expect During the Procedure
If you are scheduled to undergo an epidural injection, one of the staff members will provide you with instructions to follow before the procedure. These may include fasting for several hours prior to the injection or temporarily stopping certain medications. Once you arrive for the procedure, a healthcare provider will prepare you for the injection by cleaning and numbing the injection site. You may be given medication to help you relax, if needed.
The injection itself typically takes only a few minutes, and you may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the medication is injected. After the injection, you will be monitored for a short period of time before you can go home. You may experience some soreness or mild pain at the injection site for a few days, but this should resolve on its own.