Treatments

Epidural Steroid Injections for Back, Neck & Nerve Pain Relief

Chronic back or neck pain can take a serious toll on your daily life. If inflammation around the spine is causing nerve pain or mobility issues, an epidural steroid injection (ESI) may be a great non-surgical option that can help you feel better. At Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists, we perform these minimally invasive injections to reduce pain, ease inflammation, and help you move more comfortably.

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What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An ESI delivers a powerful anti-inflammatory medication or a corticosteroid directly around your spinal cord and nerve roots. This is often where inflammation builds up when nerves are irritated or compressed.  

We can help calm the nerves and reduce discomfort by placing medication right where the pain is.

It’s commonly used for things like:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Spinal stenosis (narrow spinal canal)
• Sciatica (radiating pain down the leg)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Post-surgical back pain

This treatment can also help many patients avoid surgery, especially when other options haven’t worked.

Learn more about pain therapy treatments at Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists.

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Who Can Benefit from an ESI?

You might be a good candidate if:

• You’ve had persistent back or neck pain that hasn’t responded to physical therapy or medication
• You’re feeling pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates down your arms or legs
• Things like walking or bending make the pain worse
• You’re trying to avoid or reduce the use of pain medications, especially opioids

If that sounds like you, our specialists will do a full evaluation to see if this treatment can help you.

Explore other non-surgical pain management options.

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What to Expect During the Procedure

ESIs are done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you are able to go home the same day. Here’s how it works:

• We start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic
• Using a type of real-time X-ray, a thin needle is guided into the epidural space near the irritated nerve
• A mix of steroid and numbing medication is injected

The whole process takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Then you’ll be monitored briefly, and will be sent home with instructions. Most people feel a gradual reduction in pain over a few days.

Learn about other interventional spine treatments.

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Benefits of an ESI:

• Relief where pain is
• No incisions or stitches
• Fast recovery time
• May reduce or eliminate the need for pain pills
• Many patients regain mobility and notice an improvement in their daily comfort

Read about other advanced pain management techniques.

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Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

You’ll likely be able to return to light activity the same day, but should avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for at least 24 hours.

Some people feel better in just a couple of days, while for others it may take up to a week. Relief can last several weeks or even months depending on the condition. In some cases, a series of injections may be recommended to maintain long-term results.

We often combine ESIs with other treatments like physical therapy or lifestyle changes to help you have long-lasting recovery.

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FAQs

How long does an epidural steroid injection relief last?
It varies, but many people feel better for weeks or even months.

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How many injections will I need?
Some only need one, while others might need two or three spaced out over a few months.

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Are Epidural Steroid Injections Safe?
Yes, when done by an experienced specialist, ESIs are very safe. Side effects are usually mild and go away quickly.

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Will insurance cover it?
Most plans do cover ESIs when they’re medically necessary. Our team can help confirm your benefits.

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Why Choose Midwest Vascular and Pain Specialists?

Our team is experienced, precise, and committed to getting you the relief you deserve.

• We use high quality imaging tools to make sure every injection is placed with care
• Our specialists are trained in the latest interventional spine techniques
• We take a full-picture approach to helping you heal in a way that’s right for your body

If back, neck, or nerve pain is bothering you, we’re here to help you.

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