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Is an Epidural Harmful for a Herniated Disc?

If you are experiencing pain in your back and legs, you could have a herniated disc. Your doctor can help you evaluate the risks and benefits of possible treatments like an epidural.

  1. Herniated Disc

    • The vertebrae in your spine are separated by rubbery disc that act like cushions. In a herniated disc, the center of a disc pushes through the disc's edge, protruding out of place and putting pressure nearby nerves.

    Epidural

    • One treatment option for a herniated disc is epidural injections of medication into your back near the damaged disc. The epidural relieves the inflammation and pain caused by the herniated disc.

    Benefits

    • The benefits of an epidural for a herniated disc include the fact that it can relieve pain for months at a time and it is less invasive than surgery.

    Complications

    • Potential harmful complications of an epidural include decreased bone density and weakened muscles.

    Considerations

    • Because an epidural can cause harmful side effects, your doctor can only administer one every few months. You could experience pain in between injections.

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