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Epidural
Epidural injections provide targeted and effective pain relief by delivering medication directly to the spinal nerves, reducing inflammation and discomfort at the source.
What is an Epidural?
An epidural is a specialized medical procedure in which pain-relieving medication is carefully injected into the epidural space surrounding the spine. This treatment is commonly used to manage severe or chronic back and leg pain, as well as to provide pain relief during childbirth.
The injected solution typically includes a combination of a local anesthetic to numb the area and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation, working together to block pain signals from traveling to the brain and provide lasting comfort.
How an Epidural is Performed
During an epidural procedure at MVM Health, you will be positioned—either sitting or lying down—in a way that allows clear access to your lower back. The treatment area is then thoroughly cleaned and sterilized, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin and ensure your comfort.
Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray guidance), your provider will precisely insert a thin needle into the epidural space of the spine and carefully administer the medication. This imaging technology allows for highly accurate placement, maximizing both safety and effectiveness. The entire procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete.
Understanding the Epidural Space
The epidural space is a soft, fat-filled area that surrounds the spinal cord and the nerves branching out from it. It lies just outside the dural sac, which protects the spinal cord and contains cerebrospinal fluid. When pain-relief medications such as local anesthetics or corticosteroids are injected into this space, they work by blocking pain signals from traveling through the affected nerves to the brain. The anesthetic provides immediate numbing of the targeted nerves,
while the corticosteroid reduces inflammation and swelling, offering both quick and long-lasting relief.This targeted approach makes epidural injections highly effective for treating conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and nerve root compression.
By addressing pain directly at its source, epidurals can significantly reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and help patients participate more comfortably in physical therapy or rehabilitation for lasting recovery.
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Next Steps After an Epidural
If pain returns after your epidural treatment, your provider at MVM Health may recommend additional epidural injections or explore other treatment options such as physical therapy or, in some cases, surgical interventions—depending on the underlying cause of your pain and how effective the initial injection was.
Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions
PRE-OP
- Arrange transportation to and from your appointment, as you may experience temporary leg numbness or weakness after the procedure.
- Inform your physician about all current medications, especially blood thinners, as adjustments may be needed before your epidural.
- Follow any fasting guidelines provided by your healthcare team if sedation will be used during the procedure.
- Notify your doctor if you have any symptoms of infection or fever, as your procedure may need to be rescheduled for safety reasons.
Post-OP
- Rest for the remainder of the day, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after your injection.
- Mild soreness or tenderness at the injection site is normal and can be relieved with ice packs or over-the-counter pain medication.
- Watch for signs of infection or unusual symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, severe pain, or redness at the site, and contact your provider immediately if they occur.
- Attend your follow-up appointments as scheduled so your provider at MVM Health can evaluate your progress and determine whether additional treatments are needed for continued relief.
Epidurals
FAQ
Who Is a Candidate for an Epidural?
Epidural injections are ideal for people with chronic back or leg pain (sciatica) that hasn’t improved with therapy or medication. They’re also used during childbirth for pain relief. Candidates should be free of infections, medication allergies, or bleeding disorders. Your MVM Health provider will determine if this treatment suits you.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects?
Epidurals are generally safe, though temporary numbness, leg weakness, or soreness may occur. Rare risks include infection, bleeding, or a spinal headache. Your provider will review these before the procedure.
How Long Does Relief Last?
Relief may last weeks to months, depending on your condition and response. Your provider will monitor progress and recommend follow-up treatments if needed.
How Often Can Injections Be Repeated?
Epidurals can be safely repeated, usually spaced about three months apart to limit steroid exposure. The number of sessions depends on your results and treatment goals.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Most patients feel only mild pressure or a brief pinch. A local anesthetic keeps you comfortable, and the procedure is typically quick and well-tolerated.