Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection McKinney, TX

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At the Advanced Spine Center, we understand that living with neck pain and discomfort can be debilitating. If you’ve been experiencing pain or numbness in your neck, shoulders, or arms due to conditions such as cervical herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or radiculopathy, a cervical epidural steroid injection may provide the relief you need.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Courtney, our highly trained McKinney orthopedic spine surgeon, please call our office at 972-499-5457 today. You can also click the button below to schedule an appointment online.

What Are Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections?

Cervical epidural corticosteroid injections are a non-surgical treatment option designed to relieve pain and inflammation in the cervical spine, or the neck region. They are primarily used to manage and alleviate pain caused by nerve compression or irritation in the cervical area.

This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a combination of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory corticosteroid medications directly into the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.

How Does a Cervical Epidural Injection Work?

Cervical epidural injections work by delivering medication to the affected area, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. The epidural space is an important target because it houses spinal nerves and nerve roots. It is located within the spinal canal and it surrounds the spinal cord.

When these nerves become compressed or inflamed due to conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis, patients often experience pain, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, and arms. The corticosteroid medication in the injection helps to reduce inflammation, while the anesthetic provides immediate pain relief.

Who Administers Cervical Epidural Injections in McKinney?

Generally, medical professionals such as orthopedic surgeons and interventional pain specialists administer cervical epidural steroid injections. At the Advanced Spine Center, Dr. Courtney, our skilled orthopedic spine surgeon, will administer your cervical epidural steroid injection. He is an expert in the field of spinal health and uses state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure that you receive the best possible care.

When Are Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections Recommended?

Cervical epidural steroid injections are recommended when conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pain medications, and rest fail to provide relief from cervical spine-related pain. Chronic neck pain and pain from the spinal cord and spinal nerves are some examples of this pain.

Conditions That Cervical Injections Treat

A cervical epidural steroid injection can provide significant pain relief for chronic neck pain, radiating arm pain, and specific cervical spine conditions. Common conditions that cervical injections can treat include the following.

Herniated Discs: When the gel-like material within the intervertebral discs leaks out and irritates or compresses nearby nerves.
Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Radiculopathy: A condition where spinal nerve roots are compressed, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and arms.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the cervical discs, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.
Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips forward or backward onto the adjacent vertebra, causing nerve compression.
Post-Surgical Pain: Persistent pain following cervical spine surgery.

What Types of Cervical Injections Are There in McKinney?

In McKinney, our Advanced Spine Center offers different types of cervical epidural injections to cater to specific patient needs. These injections can be categorized into two main types: anesthetic injections and steroid injections.

The specific type of injection recommended for you will depend on your diagnosis and the location of your pain. Our medical professionals will work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Anesthetic Injections

These are administered into the epidural space, using a local anesthetic to target specific nerve roots. They can also be used to provide more generalized pain relief throughout the cervical spine.

Steroid Injections

These are also injected into the epidural space, using corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. They can also be used to provide generalized pain relief in the cervical epidural space.

How Are Cervical Epidural Injections Administered?

The administration of cervical epidural injections is a delicate procedure that requires precision and expertise. Our team at the Advanced Spine Center in McKinney follows strict protocols to ensure your safety and comfort during the process.

Both types of injections are performed as outpatient procedures, and patients can typically return home the same day. The entire process usually takes less than an hour, and the effects of the injection can provide relief for weeks or even months, depending on the individual.

Transforaminal Epidural Injection

Preparation: You will be positioned on the procedure table, and your skin will be cleaned and sterilized.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the skin at the injection site.
Guidance: Under fluoroscopy (live X-ray guidance), a thin needle is inserted through the skin and directed toward the affected nerve root.
Medication Injection: A mixture of anesthetic and corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space, providing immediate pain relief and reducing inflammation.
Monitoring: The entire procedure is closely monitored to ensure precision and accuracy.

Interlaminar Epidural Injection

Preparation: Similar to the transforaminal injection, the preparation process involves positioning the patient and sterilizing the injection site.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the skin and tissues at the injection site.
Fluoroscopy Guidance: A thin needle is carefully inserted through the skin and directed into the epidural space between the laminae of adjacent vertebrae.
Medication Delivery: The anesthetic and corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space, providing generalized pain relief throughout the cervical spine.

How to Prepare for Cervical Epidural Injections

Before your cervical epidural corticosteroid injection, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Here’s what you can expect in terms of preparation:

Consultation: You will have a consultation with Dr. Courtney at the Advanced Spine Center. During this visit, you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure.
Medical Evaluation: Your medical history, allergies, and current medications will be thoroughly reviewed to ensure the injection is safe and appropriate for you.
Informed Consent: You will receive information about the procedure and potential risks. Once you are fully informed, you will be asked to sign a consent form.
Medications: Depending on your specific case, your doctor may instruct you to discontinue certain medications, especially blood-thinning drugs, in the days leading up to the injection.
Fasting: Sometimes, you may be required to fast for a certain period before the procedure, typically around six hours.
Arrival: On the day of the procedure, arrive at the Advanced Spine Center with a responsible person to drive you home after the injection.

By following these preparations and guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth and safe cervical epidural injection procedure.

What to Expect During the Cervical Injection Procedure

During the actual cervical epidural injection, you can expect the following:

Preparation: You will change into a gown and be positioned on the procedure table.
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the skin and underlying tissues at the injection site. You may experience a brief stinging sensation during this phase.
Fluoroscopy: Live X-ray guidance will be used to help the medical professional position the needle accurately.
Injection: The needle is inserted, and the medication is injected into the epidural space. You may feel some pressure, but the procedure should not be painful.
Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, your vital signs will be closely monitored, and you will have the opportunity to communicate with the medical staff.
Recovery: After the injection is complete, you will be monitored for a short time to ensure you are stable and experiencing no adverse reactions.
Home Recovery: Most patients can return home on the same day as the procedure, but you should have someone available to drive you.
Post-Procedure Guidelines: You will receive specific post-procedure instructions regarding rest, activity restrictions, and potential side effects.

The entire process is designed to minimize discomfort and maximize the effectiveness of the injection. Most patients experience immediate relief from pain due to the local anesthetic, with longer-lasting benefits from the corticosteroid medication. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will return home the same day as the procedure.

Recovering After Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections

Recovery after a cervical epidural steroid injection is generally straightforward. However, it’s important to follow post-procedure guidelines to ensure a successful outcome. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period:

Rest: After the procedure, it’s advisable to rest for the remainder of the day. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
Pain Relief: You may experience some soreness or mild discomfort at the injection site for a day or two, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or as advised by your medical professional.
Activity Restrictions: You should avoid strenuous activities for a few days after the injection, but light activities such as walking are encouraged.
Follow-Up: Your medical professional will schedule a follow-up appointment to assess your progress and determine the effectiveness of the injection.
Pain Relief: The immediate pain relief from the anesthetic may wear off after a few hours, but the corticosteroid’s anti-inflammatory effects can provide long-lasting pain relief over the following days to weeks.

It’s crucial to keep your medical professional informed about any persistent pain or adverse reactions following the procedure. While most patients experience positive outcomes, individual responses may vary.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Cervical Epidural Injections?

Cervical epidural injections are generally considered safe and have a low risk of complications. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions you have about potential risks with your medical professional during the consultation. They can provide a more personalized assessment of your individual risk factors. We outline the common side effects and rare complications of cervical epidural steroid injections below.

Common Side Effects

Temporary Pain: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pain at the injection site, which typically resolves within a day or two.

Temporary Numbness: Numbness or weakness in the arms and shoulders can occur, but this is usually temporary and subsides.

Flushing or Warm Sensation: Some individuals may feel a warm sensation or flush in the face, neck, or upper body.

Elevated Blood Sugar: Corticosteroid medication can cause a temporary increase in blood sugar levels, which is usually not a concern for most patients.

Rare Complications

Infection: Infection at the injection site is a rare but possible complication. Careful sterilization and aseptic techniques help minimize this risk.

Allergic Reaction: Allergic reactions to the medications used in the injection are extremely rare but can occur.

Nerve Damage: Although very uncommon, there is a slight risk of nerve injury during the injection procedure.

Dural Puncture: Accidental puncture of the dura (the outermost layer of the spinal cord) is rare but may lead to headaches, and in extremely rare cases, require additional treatment.

Achieve Cervical Spine Pain Relief at the Advanced Spine Center

At the Advanced Spine Center, our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve relief from cervical spine pain. Cervical epidural steroid injections offer a minimally invasive approach to managing pain and improving your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing neck pain, numbness, or discomfort related to cervical spine conditions, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Courtney to discuss whether cervical epidural injections are an appropriate treatment option for you. He will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and goals.

Contact the Advanced Spine Center today at 972-499-5457 and take the first step towards a pain-free, active life. Your journey to cervical spine pain relief begins here.

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