LUMBAR EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTION

What is a lumbar epidural steroid injection?

A lumbar epidural steroid injection (LESI) is an injection of a corticosteroid in the protective space surrounding the spinal cord and the spinal nerve roots in the low back.

 

What conditions can a LESI treat?

LESI may be an effective treatment for any condition that causes compression or irritation of the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots. These conditions include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis of the spine, facet arthropathy, foraminal stenosis, bone spurs and other conditions.

 

How does a LESI work?

The medication reduces inflammation around the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots which may reduce pain, numbness, tingling, weakness and other symptoms which are caused by irritation or compression of the spinal cord and the spinal nerve roots. 

 

How is the LESI performed?

The patient lays face down and the lumbar spine is visualized using fluoroscopy (continuous x-ray). While using sterile techniques, numbing medicine is injected in the skin and tissue near the vertebrae. A needle is then placed in the epidural space using fluoroscopic guidance. Then contrast is injected to ensure the needle is placed properly then the final injection of corticosteroid medication is completed.

 

What to expect after LESI?

The medication will take 24-72 hours to take full effect, during this time you may experience increased pain or tenderness. Following the procedure use pain medication, ice packs and rest to alleviate any discomfort. Most patients will experience pain relief after 2 days however it can take up to 7 days before some patients have relief. The steroids are active for one month and pain relief can vary depending on several factors. Additional LESI can be done to increase the degree of pain relief. The goal of the LESI is to decrease low back pain, nerve compression or irritation, leg and feet pain, numbness, tingling.