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Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI)


An ESI is a combination of anesthetic numbing agents and long-lasting steroids that are injected into a patient’s epidural area of the spine; the space between the bony vertebrae and the spinal cord’s dura (protective covering). This specific area is full of tiny blood vessels along with fat. These injections work to diminish acute inflammation and are quite effective when directly delivered into the sensitive and painful area; however, they don’t make a herniated disc any smaller in size, and are only effective on spinal nerves. Relief from pain can last for days, sometimes years, enabling a patient to improve the overall condition of their spinal cord in addition to performing physical therapy and a daily exercise program. Patients who suffer with ongoing pain in their neck, lower back, arm, or leg (sciatica) may greatly benefit from receiving ESI, especially those with any of the following conditions:

  • Herniated Disc
    The gel-like substance inside the disc can either rupture or bulge through a vulnerable weak area in the nearby wall, or annulus. Swelling, pain, and irritation can occur when the substance oozes out and makes contact with the patient’s spinal nerve.
  • Sciatica
    Sciatica refers to an intense pain that runs along the sciatic nerve located in the buttocks and courses down the leg. It’s typically due to the compression of the 1st sacral or 5th lumbar spinal nerve.
  • Spinal Stenosis
    If the nerve root canal and spinal canal start to narrow, it can cause significant leg and back pain, particularly when walking.
  • Degenerative Disc
    An aging or breakdown of the intervertebral disc that causes the disc space to collapse, growth of bone spurs, and tears in the annulus.
  • Spondylolysis
    A fracture or weakness between the lower and upper parts of a vertebra. Essentially, if the vertebra inadvertently slips forward, it can painfully compress the nerve roots.
