EPIDURALS – A TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC PAIN
There is a saying amongst physicians that the older you get, the more likely you will experience back pain. It is one of the most common medical conditions treated. Degenerative issues may become more common with age, but many other factors affect people of all ages. Up to 8.2% of U.S. adults suffer from chronic severe back pain, and it’s not just older folks—41% of those affected are between 18-44. This pain impacts daily life, with 75% of patients having trouble with mobility, self-care, work, or social activities, often leading to missed work and hobbies.
One treatment option for chronic back pain is epidural injections, commonly associated with childbirth, but also useful for surgery, post-op pain, and managing chronic conditions.
WHAT’S AN EPIDURAL?
An epidural is an injection targeting the space around your spinal canal, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in affected nerve roots. This treatment is often used for conditions like sciatica or spinal stenosis, combining corticosteroids and anesthetic to relieve pain.
HOW IS IT DONE?
Interlaminar: This procedure is the one that most people are familiar with. Typically used for labor or surgery, this injection spreads throughout the epidural space in the middle of your back or neck.
Transforaminal: A more targeted approach to specific nerve roots based on imaging and physical exams.
WHO MIGHT NEED ONE?
Epidurals may benefit patients with:
- Lumbar, cervical, or thoracic radiculopathy
- Pain due to disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or osteophytes
- Severe degenerative disc disease
- Post-laminectomy syndrome
- Shingles pain
WHEN TO CONSIDER ONE
You might think about getting an epidural if:
- Pain limits your daily activities
- You’re not ready for surgery
- You’ve tried conservative treatments like therapy or medications for over 6 weeks with no relief
- You have pain that radiates to your arms or legs
WHAT TO EXPECT
On procedure day, you’ll be prepped, and the injection will be performed under sterile conditions using X-ray guidance. Afterward, you’ll rest and recover before heading home. Results from the steroid injections usually take around two weeks to fully kick in.
A VISIT WITH AVALA PAIN
At AVALA Pain, we’re committed to providing top-notch care with our highly rated physicians and cutting-edge facility. If you’re struggling with chronic pain, our team is here to help you feel better, faster. From epidural injections to advanced pain management techniques, we offer personalized treatment options to get you back to living your life. Let us support you on your journey to relief.
