1 Farrer Park Station Road, #08-14, Farrer Park Hospital (Connexion), Singapore 217562
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ALLEVIATE PAIN CLINIC
We see patients with a variety of Pain-related conditions.
Epidural Steroid Injections: A Non-Surgical Solution for Radiculopathy Relief
1. What Is Radiculopathy / Sciatia?
Radiculopathy is a condition that results from pressure or irritation on a nerve root in the spine. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including sharp or dull pain, weakness, tingling, or numbness that radiates from the spine down through the affected nerve's pathway.
Common causes of radiculopathy include:
- Herniated discs that press against nerve roots
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc disease due to aging
- Injuries or trauma to the spine
Radiculopathy can manifest in different parts of the body depending on the affected area of the spine:
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Involves nerve roots in the neck region. Symptoms often include neck pain, shoulder discomfort, and radiating pain or numbness that travels down the arms, hands, and fingers.
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Occurs in the lower back and can lead to symptoms such as sciatica (pain that radiates down the leg), lower back pain, or numbness that extends to the feet and toes.
If you experience these symptoms, an Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) could be an effective option to manage and relieve your discomfort.
2. What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?
An Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) is a non-surgical treatment designed to address pain and inflammation caused by radiculopathy. The procedure involves injecting a potent anti-inflammatory corticosteroid medication directly into the epidural space around the inflamed nerve root. The steroid helps to decrease inflammation, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
The typical steps of the procedure are as follows:
- The patient is positioned either lying on their stomach or side, depending on the target area.
- The injection site is sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
- Using imaging techniques such as X-ray or ultrasound, the doctor guides a fine needle into the epidural space near the affected nerve.
- Once the needle is correctly placed, the corticosteroid and local anesthetic are injected, reducing inflammation and numbing the area.
The entire process is quick, usually lasting between 15 to 30 minutes. Since it’s minimally invasive, most patients can go home on the same day.
3. When Will I Feel Relief?
While the anesthetic used during the injection may provide immediate pain relief, it’s important to note that the corticosteroid typically takes a little longer to have its full effect. Many patients begin to feel relief within 2 to 3 weeks as the steroid reduces inflammation in the affected area. However, it’s possible that you may experience some discomfort as the anesthetic wears off before the steroid begins to take full effect.
4. How Much Pain Is Involved in the Procedure?
The level of discomfort associated with an Epidural Steroid Injection can vary. While the needle insertion may cause a brief pinch or mild pressure, the area is numbed with local anesthesia beforehand to minimize discomfort. Most patients find the procedure tolerable, and the discomfort is usually short-lived. Some may feel a slight pressure or mild discomfort as the medication is administered, but this generally fades quickly.
In fact, even those with a fear of needles often tolerate the procedure without much difficulty.
5. Are There Risks or Side Effects?
While Epidural Steroid Injections are generally safe, like any medical procedure, they come with some risks. The majority of side effects are temporary and relatively mild. Here’s what you need to know:
Common Side Effects (short-term):
- The patient is positioned either lying on their stomach or side, depending on the target area.
- The injection site is sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
- Using imaging techniques such as X-ray or ultrasound, the doctor guides a fine needle into the epidural space near the affected nerve.
- Once the needle is correctly placed, the corticosteroid and local anesthetic are injected, reducing inflammation and numbing the area.
