Overview
Spinal injections are image-guided procedures that place medication near a specific spinal structure. They are used to relieve pain and, in some cases, to help identify the source of pain.
GSMC is led by Dr. Dharam Mann, who completed fellowships in pain management, cardiac anesthesia and critical care at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard.
Common types include epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections and medial branch blocks, and sacroiliac joint injections. Your physician recommends a type based on your symptoms, exam and imaging.
Watch: how Spinal Injections works
Video: “Can Spine Injections Help My Back Pain?” from Duke Health on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
How it works
Each injection uses X-ray or ultrasound guidance to direct a thin needle to the target. Numbing medicine and, in some cases, a corticosteroid are injected.
Who it may be for
- Neck, back, arm or leg pain from a suspected spinal source
- Pain that has not improved with conservative care
- Patients who need diagnostic clarity before a procedure such as RFA
Your exam and imaging decide whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What to expect
- Before: we review your medications (especially blood thinners), allergies and imaging. You may need a driver.
- During: you lie on a procedure table, the skin is cleaned and numbed, and the physician uses X-ray (fluoroscopy) or ultrasound guidance to place the needle.
- After: you are monitored briefly and usually go home the same day. Keep a pain diary so we can judge the response.
Recovery
Most people return to normal activity within a day. Your instructions may differ.
Risks and side effects
Every procedure has risks. Your physician will review them with you, including:
- Temporary soreness at the injection site
- Temporary increase in pain
- Bleeding or bruising
- Infection (uncommon)
- Allergic reaction (rare)
- Temporary rise in blood sugar if a steroid is used
Insurance and cost
Many plans, including Medicare, may cover this treatment when criteria are met. We verify benefits before scheduling. See accepted insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Which spinal injection do I need?
It depends on where the pain is coming from. Your physician will explain the options for your diagnosis.
Are spinal injections safe?
Serious complications are uncommon when injections are performed with image guidance by trained physicians. Risks are reviewed with you beforehand.
Will I be awake?
Most injections are done with local anesthetic. Light sedation may be available for some procedures.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.