Lower Lumbar Injections for Bulging Disc

Though not the only location for bulging discs to occur, the lower lumbar region of the spine remains one of the most common. Thankfully an injection of cortisone may give you temporary pain relief.

Significance

• According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, four out of five people will experience some type of low back pain. This commonly results because of a bulging or herniated disc. One symptom includes a sharp pain down the back of one leg.

Considerations

• Before administering injections in the lower lumbar spine, doctors usually get images from an MRI or CT to help define the exact location of the bulging disc and the extent of the damage.

Treatment Options

• Often used as a last resort after over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy have failed to control the pain, doctors recommend lower lumbar injections for a bulging disc. According to Medline Plus, lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, often help to improve your overall health.

Procedure

• According to Radiology Info, a lower lumbar injection contains an anti-inflammatory drug and anesthetic combination. Doctors inject this into the sac around the nerve roots following a local skin anesthetization over the injection site.

Potential

• The effects of the epidural steroid injection may last for a week or up to a year. The need for repeat injections depends upon the amount of damage to the nerve endings and the response to the treatment. Your doctor may prescribe injections on an outpatient basis for several weeks or more.