Herniated Disc Steroid Injection

Steroid compounds have a long history as part of the herniated disc treatment arena, in both oral and injected forms. Steroids are primarily utilized as a means of decreasing inflammation and are typically combined with other substances to provide pain relief and the dilution of potentially pain-inducing nucleus pulposus proteins in the spinal region.

Herniated Disc Steroid Injection Facts

During the epidural injection procedure, a needle is placed into the anatomical compartment which surrounds the spine and one or more substances are introduced to provide a beneficial response.

In the case of steroid injections, the most commonly used substances include some form of cortisteroid including: kenalog, celestone, methylprednisolone acetate, triamcinolone acetonide and dexamethasone, although most of the time these compounds are mixed with topical anesthetics and flushing solutions, such as sterile saline.

Herniated Disc Steroid Injection Indications

As Dr. John Sarno has taught, there is seldom any evidence of an inflammatory process in the majority of painful herniated disc expressions.

Epidural injections featuring flushing solutions may be indicated for chemical radiculitis patients, but actual cases of this syndrome are rare and often controversial in their diagnosis.

In the majority of patients, it is clear that most of benefits derived from steroid epidurals come from the potent local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, which is often the effective part of the injected pharmaceutical cocktail.

Herniated Disc Steroid Injection Advice

Epidural injections often involve complications, especially when they are not administered by a surgeon or using the live x-ray technology called fluoroscopy. Most of the risks are minor, but some can be significant.

Spinal fluid leaks, sometimes requiring corrective surgery, continued bleeding and infection are all common complications of these moderate injection therapies. Do not take these risks lightly, but instead be sure to discuss them openly with your doctor.

Remember that the main risk of epidurals is their almost universally temporary nature and many patients only enjoy relief for a few days, if at all, before the pain returns in earnest.