Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection (Without Contrast) in Plano, TX

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At the Advanced Spine Center, we understand the profound impact that chronic back pain can have on your daily life. If you’re exploring options to alleviate discomfort and regain mobility, our lumbar epidural steroid injection without contrast may offer a promising solution. This minimally invasive procedure delivers targeted relief to the affected area of your spine, reducing inflammation and providing effective pain management.

Led by our experienced team of Plano orthopedic spine specialists, our clinic is dedicated to delivering personalized care that prioritizes your comfort and well-being. Discover how our advanced techniques can help you reclaim your quality of life and get back to doing what you love. To schedule an appointment with us, please call our office at 972-499-5457 today.

What Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection Without Contrast?

A lumbar epidural corticosteroid injection without contrast is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at alleviating lower back pain caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or sciatica. During the injection, a corticosteroid medication is delivered directly into the epidural space surrounding the affected spinal nerve roots in the lumbar spine. 

This medication helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, allowing patients to experience improved mobility and functionality. Unlike injections with contrast dye, which may be used for diagnostic purposes, injections without contrast focus solely on pain management.

What Does With or Without Contrast Mean?

Contrast refers to a substance, often a dye, that enhances the visibility of structures on medical imaging scans such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. In the context of medical procedures like an epidural injection, a contrast medium can be used to help visualize the placement of the needle and ensure precise delivery of medication. 

Injections with contrast involve the injection of this dye along with the medication, aiding in diagnostic accuracy. Conversely, injections without contrast solely administer the medication without the use of dye, primarily focusing on pain relief rather than diagnostic imaging.

What Are Lumbar Epidural Injections Used For?

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Lumbar epidural injections are a common treatment option for individuals experiencing chronic pain in the back, particularly if it radiates into the legs. These injections are primarily used to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, or sciatica.

Leg Pain Relief

Leg pain, often referred to as sciatica when it radiates down the leg, can be a debilitating symptom of various spinal conditions. It typically occurs due to compression or irritation of the spinal nerves in the lumbar region. 

Lumbar epidural injections target the epidural space around these nerves, delivering corticosteroid medication to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. By reducing inflammation and relieving pressure on the nerves, these injections can help alleviate leg pain and improve mobility.

Lower Back Pain Relief

Lumbar epidural injections are also effective in treating chronic low back pain directly. Many individuals suffer from chronic low back pain due to underlying spinal conditions or injuries. The corticosteroid medication injected into the epidural space helps to decrease inflammation around the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and allowing patients to engage in physical therapy and other rehabilitative measures more comfortably.

Overview of the Lumbar ESI Procedure

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This injection procedure is performed to relieve low back and radiating leg pain. Steroid medication can reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by spinal conditions.

Fluoroscope

The patient lies face down. A cushion under the stomach area provides comfort and flexes the back. In this position, the spine opens and allows for easier access to the epidural space, which surrounds the spinal cord. A fluoroscope assists the physician in locating the appropriate lumbar vertebra and nerve root. A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin.

Tissue Anesthetized

All the tissue down to the surface of the lamina portion of the lumbar vertebra bone is anesthetized.

Needle Inserted

The physician slides a thicker needle through the anesthetized track.

Guided to Epidural Space

Using the fluoroscope for guidance, the physician slides the needle toward the epidural space between the L-4 and L-5 vertebra in the spinal canal.

Steroids Injected

A steroid-anesthetics mix is injected into the epidural space, bathing the painful nerve root with soothing medication.

End of Procedure

The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied to cover the tiny needle surface wound. In some cases it may be necessary to repeat the procedure as many as three times to get the full benefit of the medication. Many patients get significant relief from only one or two injections.

What Are the Risks of Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections?

lumbar injection without contrast plano tx

Lumbar epidural steroid injections, while generally considered safe, carry certain risks and potential complications, as with any medical procedure. Some of the common risks associated with these injections include the following.

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Epidural abscess
  • Failure to provide pain relief
  • Nerve damage
  • Temporary increase in pain
  • Allergic reaction
  • Dural puncture
  • Elevated blood sugar levels

Contact the Advanced Spine Center for Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections Without Contrast

As you explore options for lower back pain management to regain your quality of life, consider the benefits of a lumbar epidural steroid injection without contrast at Advanced Spine Center. Our dedicated team of orthopedic spine specialists is committed to providing you with personalized care and effective pain management solutions. 

With our minimally invasive approach, you can experience targeted relief from inflammation and discomfort, allowing you to resume your daily activities with greater ease. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a pain-free life, schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about how our advanced techniques can help you on your journey to wellness.

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