Is epidural injection safe and effective for lower back pain?
-
Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:The first epidural injection can give significant pain relief for lower back pain, and additional injections can boost the effect. Drug dosages are monitored to avoid side effects. Nerve damage is possible but rare. Watch the video for more information on these injections.
Helpful? 2 people found this helpful
The first epidural injection can give significant pain relief for lower back pain, and additional injections can boost the effect. Drug dosages are monitored to avoid side effects. Nerve damage is possible but rare. Watch the video for more... More -
Dr. Dionne Casthely of Baptist Health South Florida answered:Epidural injections are common as part of an overall treatment for many forms of low back pain and leg pain. They can be an integral part of the non-surgical management of sciatica, low back pain and pain from degenerative conditions such as stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal column.
The goal of the injection is primarily pain relief, but often it is used in combination with a rehabilitation program to provide additional benefits so that you can tolerate a formal physical therapy program.
Typically, epidural injections are performed in a doctor's office or the hospital. They are usually given by anesthesiologists, physiatrists, or interventional radiologists with special training.
Before receiving an epidural injection, you will probably undergo an imaging test. This may involve a CT scan or an MRI of the back.
Epidural injections are common as part of an overall treatment for many forms of low back pain and leg pain. They can be an integral part of the non-surgical management of sciatica, low back pain and pain from degenerative conditions such as... More
