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Epidural Steroid Injections
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Injections work by delivering steroids directly to the painful area to help decrease inflammation at the source. There may also be a flushing effect from the injection that helps remove or "flush out" inflammatory proteins from around the structures that may cause pain.
Pain relief usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes. The patient lies flat on an xray table on their abdomen. Prior to the injection, the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic.
The use of spinal injections for back pain was first documented in 1901. In 1952, epidural steroid injections were first used to treat low back pain with associated sciatica. Their effectiveness has been significantly enhanced over the past 20 years through the use of fluoroscopy (xray imaging) to assist the physician in directing the needle toward the source of the pain.
The effects of an epidural steroid injection are temporary — generally providing pain relief for one week to a year. Patients find that the relief often enables them to fully participate in rehabilitation activites, which, in turn, speeds overall recovery.
If the first injection proves beneficial, follow up injections may be ordered as part of an overall pain management and rehabilitation plan.
We Can Help
The physicians at the Northwest Surgical Specialists Pain Management Center are board-certified pain management practitioners fluent with the use of the latest fluoroscopic techniques to deliver soothing pain medication to exactly where it will result in maximum relief.
If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic back pain, contact the Pain Management Center at 847.885.9525 to arrange a consultation.
3100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 150
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
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Foot & Ankle Care
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Skin Care
Surgical Care Center
431 Summit Street, Suite 102
Elgin, IL 60120
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Foot & Ankle Care
Physical Therapy