Lumbar epidural steroid injection: Overview
A lumbar epidural injection is a shot of steroid medicine into your back. The injection goes into the space around your spinal cord.
A doctor may do this to help with pain, tingling, or numbness in your back or down your leg. These symptoms might be caused by a back or disc problem.
Steroids don't always work. And when they do, it takes a few days. But the pain relief can last for several days to a few months or longer.
Your injection may also include a numbing medicine that will work right away for a short time.
Some people get a series of injections over weeks or months.
After lumbar epidural injection: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have trouble breathing.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new pain, or your pain gets worse.
- You have new numbness in your buttocks or legs.
- You have new weakness in your buttocks or legs.
- You have a severe headache.
- You have new loss of bowel or bladder control.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- A fever.
Watch closely for any changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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