An epidural is an injection of anesthetic to numb your lower body. We commonly use it for surgeries in the pelvic area and the legs. Epidurals are also commonly used to block the pain of childbirth. You’ll be awake and alert during and after this injection.

 

At the University Pain and Spine Center, we understand that managing pain, especially in the lower back, can be challenging. One of the effective treatments we offer for spinal pain is an epidural injection. This procedure is designed to deliver targeted relief by numbing the nerves in your lower spine, helping to alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.

Procedure

The process begins with you sitting or lying comfortably on your side. Our expert medical team will carefully numb the skin and tissue of your lower back to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Once the area is numb, we gently guide a needle through the tissue and into the epidural space, which is a fluid-filled area surrounding the nerves in your spine. The needle tip is then carefully positioned just outside the tissue that protects the nerves, ensuring that we can deliver the treatment precisely where it’s needed.

In many cases, we use a thin, flexible tube, known as a “catheter,” to administer the medication. The doctor will carefully thread the catheter through the needle and positioned in the epidural space. After this, we remove the needle, leaving the catheter in place to allow for the controlled delivery of medication. Slowly, we will inject the medicine into the epidural space, where it bathes the nerves of your lower spine. This numbs the nerves and blocks pain, providing significant relief. You can expect the effects to last for several hours, and during this time, you’ll likely experience reduced pain and increased comfort.

Once the treatment has taken effect, we’ll remove the catheter and apply a bandage to the site. To ensure a safe and smooth recovery, it’s important to follow the care instructions provided by your healthcare team.

If you’re struggling with back pain or other spine-related issues, don’t wait to seek relief. Contact the University Pain and Spine Center today and schedule a consultation with one of our experts. Let us help you take the first step toward a pain-free life!