ESI: AN OVERVIEW
BRIEF SUMMARY OF WHAT TO EXPECT
If you’ve ever experienced chronic back pain or sciatica, you know how debilitating it can be. At Eclipse Clinic, we understand the challenges associated with persistent pain and strive to offer effective solutions to improve your quality of life. One such solution is the epidural steroid injection (ESI).
ESIs are commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
When a disc in the spine ruptures or slips, it can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Narrowing of the spinal canal can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, usually from the lower back down one or both legs.
The gradual wear and tear on spinal discs can cause chronic pain.
When one vertebra slips forward over another, it can cause nerve pain and discomfort.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Determining whether you need an epidural steroid injection can depend on several symptoms, including:
- Persistent back or neck pain that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments
- Radiating pain down the arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Weakness in the muscles of the arms or legs
- Pain that worsens with certain activities or postures
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to evaluate your condition and discuss potential treatment options.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
The ESI procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting and takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
PREPARATION: You’ll lie face down on a table, and the injection site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.GUIDANCE: Using fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray), the doctor will guide a needle into the epidural space.
INJECTION: The steroid medication, often combined with a local anesthetic, is injected into the epidural space.
POST-PROCEDURE: After the injection, you’ll be monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home. Some patients may experience immediate pain relief, while others may notice improvement over the next few days.
RECOVERY AND RESULTS
Recovery from an ESI is typically quick, with most patients resuming their normal activities within a day or two. However, it’s essential to avoid strenuous activities for a few days to allow the injection to take full effect. Pain relief can vary; some patients experience significant relief that lasts for months, while others may need additional injections.
WHEN TO SEEK EVALUATION:
If you’re struggling with chronic back or neck pain, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. At Eclipse Clinic, our experienced team of specialists can evaluate your condition, discuss your symptoms, and determine if an epidural steroid injection is right for you. We are dedicated to providing personalized care to help you achieve lasting pain relief and improved mobility.
Don’t let pain control your life. Visit Eclipse Clinic for a thorough evaluation and take the first step towards a pain-free future. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.