WHAT ESI IS

An Epidural Steroid Injection is an injection of a steroid into the affected area in an attempt to decrease pain and inflammation. The injection given can be highly effective because the steroid which decreases inflammation is injected directly to the source of the pain.

Pain from many types of spinal conditions may be improved including: herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. Approximately fifty percent of patients show improvement following ESI procedures. If a patient shows improvement, further therapeutic injections may be indicated.

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. The physician will cleanse the area of injection with a sterile solution and inject a local anesthetic into the appropriate area, which may cause momentary discomfort and a slight burning sensation.
2. After the area is numb, the physician will insert a needle and inject the steroid. A patient will feel pressure but should not feel pain while the steroid is being injected.
3. The assistant will then place a small adhesive bandage on the injection site.
4. A patient may experience some soreness at the injection site for the first 24 hours after receiving the injection. If so, applying ice will help reduce the discomfort.

A patient may be asked to remain in the office for some time after the procedure for monitoring. A patient may drive home, although some patients are more comfortable allowing someone else to do so. A patient may resume normal activities following the procedure.