Living with back pain can be a debilitating experience, but there’s hope for those in Chicago, IL. One effective method for managing such discomfort is through epidural steroid injections. This treatment has become a form of relief for many. Let’s explore what this procedure involves and how it can help alleviate back pain.
What Is an Epidural Injection?
An epidural injection for back pain in Chicago is a medical procedure involving the delivery of steroids directly into the epidural space near the spine. This area, filled with fat and small blood vessels, is crucial as it lies between the dura mater and the vertebral wall. The injection targets this space, effectively reducing inflammation and flushing out proteins that contribute to pain. This approach is especially beneficial for conditions like lumbar disc herniation, where inflammation plays a significant role in pain.
When Should You Consider an Epidural for Back Pain?
If you are experiencing back discomfort in Chicago, considering an epidural treatment could be advisable. This method is particularly beneficial for individuals in recovery from ailments such as lumbar spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease. Administering this steroid injection may offer essential pain alleviation, allowing patients to engage more fully in their rehabilitative activities.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The process of receiving an epidural injection in Chicago involves a straightforward procedure. Patients lie on their abdomen, and the targeted area is numbed. Physicians then use fluoroscopy to guide the needle precisely to the epidural space. The entire process takes about 15 to 30 minutes, with a brief monitoring period following the injection.
What Are the Benefits of the Procedure?
A major benefit of receiving an epidural for back pain in Chicago is the notable decrease in discomfort, especially in the leg area. Individuals typically report improved results when this method is combined with a systematic exercise regimen. Although the pain relief provided may be short-lived, lasting from several weeks to about a year, it plays a crucial role in aiding patients to move forward during episodes of intense pain.
What Are the Potential Risks and Frequency of Injections?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with steroid injection for back pain in Chicago, though they are relatively rare. These risks include infections, bleeding, and nerve damage. The frequency of these injections varies, but typically, up to three injections per year are considered reasonable.
For many in Chicago, IL, dealing with back pain, epidural steroid injections offer a promising path to relief and recovery. Ready to explore relief options for your back pain? Contact Pain & Spine Institute today to discuss if epidural steroid injections are right for you.