What Are Epidural Steroid Injections?
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are one of the most common and effective treatments for relieving spine-related pain. The procedure delivers a powerful anti-inflammatory medication (corticosteroid) directly into the epidural space—the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots.
By reducing inflammation at the source of pain, ESIs can provide significant relief for conditions that compress or irritate spinal nerves, often allowing patients to participate more effectively in physical therapy and resume normal activities.
Conditions Treated
Epidural steroid injections are highly effective for:
Herniated or Bulging Discs
When disc material presses on nearby nerves causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
Sciatica
Radiating pain along the sciatic nerve from the lower back through the legs.
Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related wear and tear causing inflammation and nerve irritation.
The Procedure
Preparation
You'll lie face down on a procedure table. The injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. Light sedation may be offered for comfort.
Image Guidance
Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), Dr. Ohanyan precisely guides a thin needle to the epidural space near the affected nerve roots.
Injection
A combination of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is injected into the epidural space. The entire procedure takes about 15-30 minutes.
Recovery
You'll rest briefly in the recovery area before going home. Most patients can resume normal activities the next day.
Benefits
Are You a Candidate?
Epidural steroid injections may be right for you if you have: