Spinal Injections

Conditions It Treats:

Spinal injections are used to treat various pain conditions affecting the spine, including degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and facet joint arthritis. They can also be used to diagnose the source of back or neck pain by targeting specific structures within the spine.

Procedure Description:

Spinal injections involve the injection of medications, such as corticosteroids or local anesthetics, into specific areas of the spine to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve function. The injection may target different structures within the spine, including intervertebral discs, facet joints, nerve roots, or the epidural space.

During the procedure, the patient lies on their stomach or back on an examination table, depending on the location of the injection. The skin over the injection site is cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. Using fluoroscopic guidance or ultrasound imaging, the physician inserts a thin needle into the targeted area and administers the medication.

How Does It Help:

Spinal injections help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation by delivering medication directly to the affected area of the spine. Corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and swelling around irritated nerves or joints, while local anesthetics can temporarily block pain signals from reaching the brain.

Procedure Benefits:

• Pain Relief: Spinal injections can provide significant pain relief for patients with various spinal conditions, allowing them to resume normal activities with less discomfort.
• Improved Function: By reducing pain intensity and improving pain control, spinal injections can improve function and mobility, enhancing quality of life for patients.
• Minimally Invasive: Spinal injections are minimally invasive procedures that can be performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal discomfort and downtime.

How Long Does It Take:

The duration of a spinal injection procedure varies depending on the type and location of the injection. In general, the procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete, including preparation and recovery time. Patients may need to spend additional time in the recovery area for observation before being discharged home.

What Are the Expected Results:

Many patients experience immediate pain relief following a spinal injection, which may last for several days to weeks. With repeated injections or a series of injections, pain relief may be prolonged, allowing for better management of chronic pain conditions.

Expected results may include reduced pain intensity, improved function and mobility, and enhanced overall well-being.

If It Doesn’t Help, What Is Next:

If a spinal injection does not provide the desired pain relief, alternative treatment options may be considered, including:

• Further Evaluation: Additional diagnostic tests or imaging studies may be conducted to reassess the underlying pain condition and explore other treatment options.
• Alternative Interventions: Depending on the specific condition and individual circumstances, alternative treatments such as medication management, physical therapy, or surgical options may be recommended.
• Combination Therapies: In some cases, a combination of different treatments may be more effective in addressing the underlying pain condition and managing symptoms.

Is This Treatment Right for Me:

Spinal injections may be a suitable treatment option for individuals with spinal conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments such as medication or physical therapy. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if spinal injections are appropriate for your specific condition and individual health needs.

Factors such as the location and severity of the pain, previous treatment history, overall health, and potential risks and benefits of the procedure will be considered to make an informed decision about whether spinal injections are right for you.