The Effects of Steroids Used in Epidurals
-
Identification
-
An epidural steroid injection bathes the nerve roots in anti-inflammatory medication. This may help to decrease the irritation of the nerve roots and decrease pain.
Potential
-
Epidural steroid injections may be used to treat patients who suffer from nerve compression or radiculopathy (pain that radiates away from the spine).
Benefits
-
Epidural steroid injections contain high powered anti-inflammatory medications. This medication may help to reduce pain and inflammation, when injected near the nerve roots.
Side Effects
-
Some of the side effects that can occur with epidural steroid use are infection at the injection site, a reaction to the corticosteroid used, and injury to the surrounding tissues.
Considerations
-
Epidural steroid injections may help to decrease pain and inflammation in the back. There may be some risk of side effects associated with this treatment. It is important to discuss these risks with your health care provider.
-