Effectiveness of Epidural Steroid Injections Towards Managing Pain
Living with pain can be extremely challenging as it not only affects a person’s physical well-being but also takes a toll on their emotional health. For those seeking relief, Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) have become a choice for treatment.
This non-surgical method involves injecting medication into the space to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. So, if you are seeking ways for effective pain management, Epidural steroid injections can be effective. In this guide, we will discuss the effectiveness of steroid injections in managing different types of pain.
So, let’s learn about the effectiveness of Epidural steroid injections.
Understanding the Epidural Space;
Before we delve into the effectiveness of steroid injections, let’s first understand what the epidural space is. The epidural space is situated between the covering ( mater) of the spinal cord and the bony vertebral column. It contains blood vessels and nerve roots. When inflammation occurs in this region, it can exert pressure on nerves and result in pain. So, in case you are experiencing pain in the epidural space, these steroid injections can effectively help with pain management in Spokane, WA.
Types of Pain Addressed by Epidural Steroid Injections;
One cause of back pain is spinal disc herniation. This occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc protrudes through its ring, putting pressure on nerves and causing discomfort.
Epidural steroid injections have shown effectiveness in reducing the inflammation surrounding a herniated disc, leading to relief from pain. However, it’s important to note that these injections primarily target the inflammation rather than directly treating the disc herniation.
2. Spinal Stenosis;
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine become narrower resulting in pressure on the nerves. This can cause discomfort and pain in the back and legs. Epidural steroid injections can help manage this pain by reducing inflammation and relieving pressure in the space. Depending on the severity of stenosis, multiple injections may be required for long-term pain relief.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease;
Degenerative disc disease occurs when the intervertebral discs between vertebrae begin to deteriorate or break down. This can lead to back pain due to cushioning between vertebrae. While epidural steroid injections cannot reverse this process, they can provide relief by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
4. Sciatica;
Sciatica is characterized by shooting pain that travels along the nerve, which extends from the lower back through the hips and down each leg.
Sciatica pain is often caused by pressure on the nerves as they exit the spine. To manage this pain effectively, doctors may recommend steroid injections. These injections work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the space, thus relieving pressure on the nerves.
Effectiveness of Epidural Steroid Injections
The effectiveness of steroid injections has been investigated in studies. While outcomes may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated, many patients have reported pain relief after receiving these injections.
A research review published in the Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology found that 50 to 70% of patients with lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease experienced short-term pain relief from steroid injections. The study also highlighted that these injections were generally safe, with a few notable side effects reported.
Another study published in the European Spine Journal examined the long-term effects of steroid injections for sciatica. According to their findings, these injections provided pain relief for patients, with improvements lasting up to one year. However, it’s important to note that they were found to be more effective for acute or subacute sciatica cases compared to ones.
Conclusion
Epidural steroid injections have become a tool for managing chronic pain conditions like spinal disc herniation, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and sciatica. These injections work by reducing inflammation and alleviating pressure on the nerves, resulting in pain relief. They can greatly enhance individuals’ functionality and overall quality of life. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if epidural steroid injections are appropriate for your condition.
