Epidural Steroid Injection and other Nerve Block Procedures
Epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a common treatment option for many forms of spinal pain associated with nerve pain symptoms. These injections can be performed in the neck (Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection), mid-spine (Thoracic Epidural Steroid Injection) or in the lumbar region (Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection). These injections have been used to help treat spinal pain since 1952 and remain an integral part of the non-surgical management of spinal pain. The goal of epidural injection therapy is pain relief. Injections are effective for acute disc injuries with nerve pain, spinal stenosis and other conditions. While responses vary, many patients respond with substantial pain relieve of long duration. Epidural injections are commonly used in combination with a rehabilitation program. Pain management specialist are trained in these important injection techniques through residency and specialized pain fellowship programs. This leads to expertise that is reflected through board certification in pain management granted through the American Board of Medical Specialties. (ABMS), the gold standard in pain certification. Keys to safe and successful injection treatments are good clinical judgment, proper patient selection, accurate placement of needles with the guidance of X-Ray equipment, proper medication choice and most importantly, the skills and training of the treating physician.