Epidural Steroid Injection

What it is and why we do it

An epidural steroid injection is a non-surgical procedure that places a strong anti-inflammatory medicine right next to an irritated nerve, in the space just outside the covering of the spinal nerves (the epidural space). It is used for the arm or leg pain of a pinched nerve or stenosis. Pain from an irritated nerve comes partly from inflammation, and calming that inflammation can give real relief — and the injection can also help confirm which nerve is the source.

What happens during the procedure

It is done as an outpatient, usually with X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance for accuracy. After numbing the skin, a thin needle is guided to the right spot and the medicine is placed near the affected nerve. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes.

What to expect after

You go home the same day. Relief often builds over a few days rather than instantly, and how long it lasts varies from person to person. The injection can be repeated within sensible limits. It is not a cure for the underlying problem, but it can ease pain and buy time for things to settle — often enough to avoid surgery.

The science — for the curious

The injection works on the inflammatory side of nerve pain, which is why it can help even when the mechanical pressure remains. It fits squarely into maximizing non-surgical care: by quieting inflammation and giving the body time, many people improve and never need an operation. Relief is variable and can be temporary, but for the right problem it is a valuable, low-risk step.

Learn more

OrthoInfo — Spinal Injections: orthoinfo.org

OrthoInfo — Sciatica: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This handout is general education about this procedure and does not replace the specific plan, risks, and consent discussion we have together. Your own situation may differ — if anything here does not match what we talked about, what we talked about wins, so please ask me.