Spinal injections, such as epidural, nerve root, and facet joint injections, are minimally invasive procedures used to provide temporary relief for patients suffering from degenerative disc, nerve, or joint pain. These injections are performed using imaging guidance to ensure accurate and safe administration.
The effects of these injections can last for several weeks, and in some cases, up to a year, depending on the patient's condition. Spinal injections are often used to treat conditions like spinal stenosis, sciatica, and arthritis, which can cause pain in the neck, arms, lower back, or legs.
During the injection procedure, an anesthetic and steroid medication are injected into the targeted area. The anesthetic is used to temporarily numb the pain, while the steroid helps to reduce inflammation and provide long-lasting relief. The entire process typically takes around 4-6 hours for the steroid to take full effect.
Patients undergoing spinal injections can expect a minimally invasive and relatively quick procedure, with their comfort being the primary focus of the healthcare team. The use of imaging guidance ensures the accurate placement of the injection, maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment.