Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection McKinney, TX

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At the Advanced Spine Center, we are your source for advanced lumbar spine care in McKinney, Texas. Our dedicated team of spine specialists is committed to providing you with the most cutting-edge treatments to alleviate your spine-related pain and discomfort. We offer lumbar epidural steroid injections (LESIs), a minimally invasive procedure that can offer substantial relief from various spinal conditions.

If you suffer from a painful lumbar spine condition, our McKinney orthopedic spine surgery specialists are here for you. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Courtney, please call our office at 972-499-5457 today. You can also click the button below to schedule an appointment online.

What Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection?

Lumbar epidural (cortico)steroid injections, often called LESIs, are a medical procedure used to provide pain relief and inflammation in the lower back, specifically the lumbar region of the spine. The lumbar spine encompasses the five vertebrae in the lower back (L1-L5), and LESIs are administered in the epidural space, a sac-like area surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves exiting the spine.

During a LESI, a combination of local anesthetics and corticosteroids is injected into the epidural space. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, works over time to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the affected area.

How Do Lumbar Injections Work?

LESIs target the source of pain and inflammation in the lumbar spinal canal. The steroid medication component of the injection helps to reduce inflammation and swelling around irritated nerves in the epidural space, while the local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief. This combination often results in a significant reduction in pain and discomfort, allowing patients to engage in physical therapy and other rehabilitative activities with less discomfort.

When Are Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections Recommended?

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections are recommended when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, and rest, have not provided adequate relief from lower back pain. They are typically considered for individuals experiencing persistent pain that radiates down the legs, often caused by conditions like herniated discs, spinal cord issues, compressed spinal nerves, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.

These injections may be advised as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to manage pain, improve function, and facilitate participation in rehabilitation exercises. However, it’s important to note that LESIs are not a long-term solution but can provide significant relief for a certain duration.

What Conditions Can Lumbar Injections Treat?

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections can be an effective treatment for a variety of spinal conditions and associated symptoms, including:

Herniated Discs: When a disc in the spine becomes damaged and leaks its inner gel-like material, it can compress nearby spinal nerve roots or spinal cord, causing pain and discomfort. LESIs can help alleviate the inflammation and pain associated with this condition.
Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can lead to compression of the nerves, resulting in pain, weakness, and numbness. LESIs can help reduce inflammation and relieve these symptoms.
Degenerative Disc Disease: As discs in the spine wear down over time, it can lead to pain and inflammation. LESIs can provide relief from these symptoms and improve quality of life.
Sciatica: Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates down the sciatic nerve, typically caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lumbar spine. LESIs can target the inflammation causing this pain. It is commonly associated with leg pain.
Facet Joint Arthritis: Arthritis in the facet joints of the spine can lead to pain and inflammation. Facet joint injections can be administered to alleviate this pain.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Pain in the sacroiliac joint, which connects the pelvis to the lower spine, can be managed with sacroiliac joint steroid injections.

Who Administers Lumbar Epidural Injections in McKinney, TX?

At the Advanced Spine Center, our team of experienced spine specialists, including orthopedic surgeons, are trained to administer Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections. Our medical professionals have extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating various spine conditions, ensuring that you receive the highest level of care throughout your treatment.

Our physicians will work closely with you to assess your condition, determine the most appropriate treatment plan, and discuss the potential benefits and risks of lumbar injections based on your specific needs.

What Types of Lumbar Epidural Injections Are There?

There are different types of lumbar epidural injections, and the choice of injection may depend on the patient’s condition and the location of the pain. The choice of injection type will be determined by your physician based on your specific condition and symptoms. The most common lumbar epidural steroid injection types include the following.

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections involve the injection of corticosteroids and local anesthetics into the epidural space. This procedure aims to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the lumbar spine. They are administered into the epidural space.

Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections

Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections are a targeted approach, where the medication is injected into the foramen, the opening where spinal nerves exit the spine in the epidural space. This method allows for precise delivery of medication to the affected nerve roots.

Facet Joint Injections

Facet joints are small joints in the spine that can become a source of pain and inflammation. They deliver medication directly to these joints to reduce chronic pain and improve mobility.

Medial Branch Blocks

Medial branch blocks are used to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints. A local anesthetic is injected near the medial branches of the nerves that supply the facet joints to determine if these joints are the source of pain.

Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections

Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections are administered through the sacral hiatus, targeting the epidural space in the sacral region of the spine. They often treat conditions in the lower lumbar and sacral areas.

Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injections

Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injections are used to alleviate pain arising from the sacroiliac joint, which connects the pelvis to the lower spine. These injections can provide relief for patients experiencing sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

How to Prepare for Your Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

Before your lumbar epidural corticosteroid injections, there are a few steps you can take to ensure the procedure goes smoothly. We outline these steps below.

Consultation: Your journey begins with an initial consultation with one of our spine specialists. During this consultation, your medical history and symptoms will be assessed, and a treatment plan, including the type of injection, will be discussed.
Medications: Inform your physician of any current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the injection.
Allergies: If you have any known allergies, make sure to inform your healthcare provider. This is important to avoid any adverse reactions to the medications used during the injection.
Fasting: In most cases, you must fast for a few hours before the procedure. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions regarding fasting.
Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the clinic on the day of the procedure, as the medication administered during the injection may affect your ability to drive safely.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure. This will help ensure your comfort during the injection.

By following these guidelines and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can help ensure a safe and successful lumbar epidural steroid injection.

What Is the Lumbar Epidural Injection Procedure Like?

The lumbar epidural steroid injection procedure is typically conducted on an outpatient basis and follows these general steps:

Preparation: You will be asked to change into a gown, and a nurse will clean the injection site to minimize the risk of infection.
Positioning: You will be positioned on the procedure table, often lying on your stomach or side. The healthcare provider will use fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray, to guide the injection accurately.
Local Anesthetic: The physician will administer a local anesthetic to numb the skin and deeper tissues at the injection site. This minimizes discomfort during the procedure.
Needle Placement: Using fluoroscopy guidance, a thin needle is carefully inserted into the epidural space in the lumbar region of the spine.
Medication Administration: The corticosteroid and local anesthetic are injected into the epidural space. The medication will bathe the irritated nerve roots, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief.
Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, the healthcare provider will monitor the progress of the injection using fluoroscopy to ensure precision and accuracy.
Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area to ensure there are no immediate adverse effects. You may experience some numbness or weakness in your legs temporarily due to the local anesthetic.

The entire procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes, and you can usually return home the same day.

Potential Complications and Risks of Lumbar Injections

While lumbar epidural steroid injections are generally safe and well-tolerated, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of. It’s important to discuss these with your healthcare provider before the procedure. Possible risks and complications may include:

Infection: There is a minimal risk of infection at the injection site. Proper sterile techniques are used to minimize this risk.
Bleeding: Although rare, bleeding may occur at the injection site or from damaged blood vessels. This risk is higher for patients with bleeding disorders.
Nerve Damage: While extremely rare, there is a slight risk of nerve damage during the procedure. Your healthcare provider uses advanced imaging techniques to minimize this risk.
Allergic Reaction: In rare cases, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the medications used during the injection.
Temporary Leg Weakness: Due to the local anesthetic used, some patients may experience temporary weakness or numbness in their legs. This typically resolves within a few hours.
Temporary Increase in Pain: In some cases, patients may experience increased pain immediately after the injection, which usually subsides within a day or two.
No Relief: While LESIs can be highly effective, they do not guarantee relief for everyone. The response to the injection varies from person to person.
Elevated Blood Sugar Levels: For individuals with diabetes, corticosteroids can temporarily elevate blood sugar levels. This should be closely monitored.

It’s essential to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure to minimize potential risks and complications.

What Is Recovery Like After Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections?

Recovery after a lumbar epidural steroid injection is typically straightforward. You can generally expect the following after your injection.

Immediate Post-Injection Period: After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. You may experience some numbness or weakness in your legs due to the local anesthetic. This usually subsides within a few hours.

Rest: It’s advisable to rest for the remainder of the day following the injection. You should avoid strenuous activities and physical exertion.

Pain Relief: The local anesthetic component of the injection provides immediate pain relief. You may experience some soreness at the injection site, but this is usually mild and short-lived.

Gradual Improvement: The corticosteroid in the injection takes some time to reduce inflammation and fully alleviate pain. You may start to notice gradual improvement in your symptoms in the days following the injection.

Physical Therapy: Depending on your condition, your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy or other rehabilitative exercises to complement the effects of the injection.

Follow-Up Appointments: Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and determine the effectiveness of the injection. Additional injections may be recommended if necessary.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome and long-term pain relief.

How Long Before Lumbar Injections Start to Work?

The time it takes for lumbar epidural steroid injections to start working can vary from person to person and may depend on the specific condition being treated. Generally, the local anesthetic component provides immediate pain relief, but the corticosteroid’s anti-inflammatory effects take some time to develop. Some patients may start to experience relief within a few days, while for others, it may take a week or more.

For chronic conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis, it may take a series of injections over several weeks to achieve sustained relief. Your healthcare provider will work closely with you to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

How Long Will Lumbar Epidural Injections Work?

The duration of pain relief from lumbar epidural injections can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some patients may experience relief for several weeks, while others may enjoy relief for several months. In some cases, the effects can be long-lasting, and patients may not require additional injections.

It’s important to note that LESIs are not a permanent solution. The corticosteroid’s anti-inflammatory effects are temporary, and the underlying condition may continue to progress. In cases of chronic conditions, multiple injections may be required to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life.

How Successful Are Lumbar Injections?

The success of lumbar epidural steroid injections varies from patient to patient and depends on factors such as the underlying condition, the injection technique, and individual response to the treatment. For many patients, LESIs provide significant pain relief and improved function, allowing them to participate in rehabilitation and physical therapy more effectively.

Success rates for lumbar injections have been reported to range from 75% to 90%, making them a valuable tool in managing lower back pain and associated symptoms. However, the effectiveness may decrease over time, so a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other therapies, such as physical therapy, is often recommended.

Call the Advanced Spine Center for Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections in McKinney, TX

At the Advanced Spine Center in McKinney, Texas, we are dedicated to providing you with the most advanced and effective treatments for your spinal conditions. If you are suffering from lower back pain and have exhausted conservative treatment options, lumbar epidural steroid injections may be the solution you need to regain your quality of life.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Courtney about your lumbar spinal pain, please call our office at 972-499-5457 today.

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