Epidural Injections for Chronic Pain Relief
This page will provide you with information about an epidural injection for chronic pain relief. For further details, please speak to your consultant.
What is an epidural injection?
An epidural injection is a pain management procedure which involves injecting local anaesthetics and steroids into an area of your body called the epidural space, which is near your spinal cord.
These drugs temporarily numb your nerves and help relieve your pain without putting you to sleep, whilst the steroids reduce inflammation and may make the pain relief last longer.
An epidural injection can be used for most people, usually giving a safe and effective form of pain relief. It is often used to help for the treatment of lower back pain. The pain relief generally lasts up to six weeks.
Are there different types of epidural?
Different types of epidural injection are used to manage pain in different parts of your body, depending on where on your spine it is administered (see Figure 1).
What are the benefits of having an epidural injection?
An epidural injection can help provide you short-term pain relief for chronic conditions, allowing you to move around more easily.
Receiving an epidural can also help progress with a rehabilitative exercise program.
What will happen during the procedure?
An epidural injection does not take very long – usually around 15 to 30 minutes.
Risks and complications
Any risks of complications will be discussed in advance of your treatment with your expert consultant.
References:
EIDO Healthcare Limited – The operation and treatment information on this website is produced using information from EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Aspen Healthcare.
The information should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
Epidural Injections for Chronic Pain Relief Consultants
Qualifications
MBBS MD FRCA FIPP FFPMRCA
Clinical Interests
Back & neck pain, musculoskeletal pain, sciatica & nerve pain, pelvic and abdominal pain. Also interested in...
Qualifications
MBBS MD FRCA FIPP FFPMRCA
Clinical Interests
Back & neck pain, musculoskeletal pain, sciatica & nerve pain, pelvic and abdominal pain. Also interested in...
Qualifications
MD. FFARCSI.
Clinical Interests
Chronic pain management, management of neuropathic pain, back pain and musculoskeletal pain.
Qualifications
MD. FFARCSI.
Clinical Interests
Chronic pain management, management of neuropathic pain, back pain and musculoskeletal pain.
