Are Epidural Steroid Injections Safe?
Chronic back or neck pain can be debilitating, making everyday tasks a challenge. One of the most common interventional treatments for managing this pain is the epidural steroid injection (ESI). But many patients wonder — are these injections truly safe?
At Spinal Diagnostics, our team of specialists is here to provide not only expert pain relief but also the information you need to feel confident in your treatment options. Let’s explore the safety of epidural steroid injections.
What Are Epidural Steroid Injections?
ESIs involve injecting a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space of your spine — the area around your spinal cord and nerves. This steroid works to reduce inflammation and irritation, which often contribute to back, neck, or leg pain (such as sciatica).
These injections are commonly used to treat conditions like:
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Radiculopathy (pinched nerves)
They can provide relief that lasts from weeks to several months, depending on your condition and response to the treatment.
Are They Safe?
When administered by an experienced medical professional, ESIs are generally considered very safe. At Spinal Diagnostics, we use image guidance (such as fluoroscopy) to ensure accurate needle placement, minimizing risks and maximizing effectiveness.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, but they are rare. These may include:
- Temporary numbness or weakness
- Headache (if spinal fluid is accidentally affected)
- Infection or bleeding at the injection site
- Increased blood sugar in people with diabetes
We take every precaution to screen patients for risk factors and tailor treatment to each individual’s medical history.
How Many Injections Can You Have?
To minimize potential side effects from repeated steroid use, most providers limit the number of injections to 3-4 per year. If your pain returns frequently, we may recommend alternative therapies to supplement or replace steroid injections over time.
During your consultation, our team will help determine the best course of action to reduce your pain and support your long-term health.
Is It Right for You?
For many patients, epidural steroid injections offer meaningful relief and can reduce the need for oral pain medications or more invasive procedures. They’re especially helpful for acute flare-ups that limit your mobility and quality of life.
If you’re dealing with chronic spinal pain and are exploring non-surgical solutions, contact our team at Spinal Diagnostics. We’ll guide you through your options and provide safe, evidence-based care tailored to your needs.
