Welcome to Pain Management Institute

To make an appointment for any of our locations, please call
  815.412.6166

2018-08-27

This injection is a life saver!

As of late, there has been an expansion in media consideration with respect to the adequacy of epidural corticosteroid infusions, particularly for a condition called lumbar spinal stenosis. But, wait; let’s first explore what Epidural Steroid Injections are.

Epidural Steroid Injections

An Epidural Steroid Injection (“ESI”) is an injection with a blend of a corticosteroid and a neighborhood soporific drug, locally known as anesthesia. Corticosteroids are effective anti-inflammatory drugs that work to diminish swelling and aggravation helps taking away the weight off the nerves and other delicate tissues, bringing about noteworthy comfort. An ESI might be attempted when other non-operative medicines have neglected to diminish extreme back or leg pain from different reasons that lead to nerve irritation. These injections have been utilized for low back conditions since 1952 and are as yet an imperative piece of non-operative treatment designs. Relief from discomfort may keep going for a few days or even years. The objective is to diminish painful sensations with the goal that you may continue ordinary lifestyle and a non-intrusive treatment program.

Potential Risk Factors

The potential risks associated with inserting the needle include spinal headache from a dural puncture, bleeding, infection, allergic reaction, and nerve damage / paralysis (rare). Corticosteroid side effects may cause weight gain, water retention, flushing (hot flashes), mood swings or insomnia, and elevated blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Any numbness or mild muscle weakness usually resolves within 8 hours in the affected arm or leg (similar to the facial numbness experienced after dental work). Patients who are being treated for chronic conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis) or those who cannot temporarily discontinue anti-clotting medications should consult their personal physician for a risk assessment. Overall, this is a very safe procedure if it’s carried out appropriately.

Effectiveness

Sensing the painful hints and its reaction are exceptionally individualized. Research to decide the viability of these medicines in the lumbar spine has demonstrated normal achievement rates between 50 percent and 90 percent. Numerous components impact the viability of Epidural Steroid Injections. Research has demonstrated that the sooner you get a dose for the pain, the better the result might be. To what extent help with comfort will last fluctuates with every patient.

The Expert

Choose your doctor effectively. Confused about who to contact? And what’s the best treatment for your pain? Contact Dr. Zaki Anwar! Dr Zaki is very experienced in interventional treatments. He is a world renowned Pain Medicine Physician and has been practicing ways to cure pain leading to serious problems for the past several years and has achieved remarkable results. Get his expert opinion by just making a phone call at 815-464-7212.