Living with chronic back pain or leg pain can make you feel overwhelmed every day. Making your daily activities and quality of life harder. At University Pain & Spine Center, our specialists use advanced minimally invasive treatments like caudal epidural injections to provide you with relief from your pain without feeling unsafe. Helping you move forward without constant discomfort is our main objective.
Our pain management experts in Somerset, Monroe, Ewing, Englewood Cliffs, Jersey City, Hoboken, Bloomfield, Freehold, Clark, and Elizabeth, New Jersey; and Bayridge, Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, and Hempstead, New York, are committed to helping patients find relief and regain control of their everyday lives.
A caudal epidural injection involves injecting anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space in the lower back, near the tailbone. This procedure is designed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the lower back, legs, or buttocks. Unlike other injections, the caudal epidural injections are applied only through the sacral hiatus, the base of the spine.
The epidural space surrounds the spinal cord and nerves. Inflammation in this area can result in significant pain. The injection targets this space to reduce swelling and inflammation, easing discomfort.
The caudal epidural injection is usually recommended in patients with:
However, the diagnosis is a crucial step in seeking the best treatment for you. The injections can improve your situation quickly and safely. Additionally, the mix of medications injected helps to reduce every nerve irritation and restore mobility within a few days.
We perform the procedure with the patient lying face down. Imaging techniques, such as fluoroscopy, guide the needle to the correct spot. A local anesthetic is often used to numb the area before the injection, reducing any pain during the process.
The medication used typically includes a corticosteroid, which helps decrease inflammation, and sometimes a local anesthetic for immediate relief. Many patients experience significant relief after the injection, although the duration of relief can vary. Some people may experience improvement for weeks or months, while others may require additional injections. Repeat injections can be part of a longer-term pain management plan, which may also include physical therapy and other treatments.
With a caudal epidural injection, you will significantly reduce your chronic pain, improving your mobility and restoring your quality of life. Additionally, the procedure is quick and has a short recovery process, making it a perfect option if you are seeking a non-surgical alternative.
A caudal epidural injection can also prevent other treatments, more invasive procedures, or complications developed by the initial condition that is not treated before.
After the injection, you may experience tingling or mild discomfort in the injection site. Most patients return to their activities the same day, but it is recommended to avoid intense efforts during the first 24 hours.
The relief can last weeks to months, depending on the cause of your pain. In some cases, a series of injections brings the best results. However, the specialist will tailor your plan based on your symptoms and their evolution.
While generally safe, the procedure is associated with certain risks, like infection, bleeding, or nerve injury. However, these risks are rare, and most patients find the procedure effective in managing chronic pain. Caudal epidural injections offer a less invasive alternative to surgery for those with persistent lower back pain or leg pain.
At University Pain and Spine Center, we specialize in advanced spinal treatments like caudal epidural injections. Our team of experienced surgeons, who provide personalized care for their patients, and excellently-equipped facilities ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
If you’re considering this treatment, it’s important to consult with a specialist. Visit University Pain and Spine Center in New York and New Jersey, where our team can help determine if a caudal epidural injection is right for you. Contact us and schedule your appointment.
