Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections for Pain Management

A cervical epidural steroid injection is a procedure that involves injecting a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space in the neck. The epidural space is a small area outside the Dural sac, which is a protective membrane that surrounds the spinal cord. The injection is typically given to individuals who are experiencing neck pain, headaches, or other types of pain in the upper back and shoulders. 

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Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections Treated Conditions

  • Cervical herniated disk – A cervical herniated disk is a condition in which one of the disks that cushions the bones (vertebrae) in the neck becomes damaged or ruptures, allowing the inner portion of the disk (nucleus pulposus) to bulge out or protrude. This can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nearby nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and other symptoms in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.  
  • Cervical degenerative disk disease – Cervical degenerative disk disease (DDD) is a condition that occurs when the disks in the neck (cervical spine) become damaged or worn down over time. The disks are made up of a soft, spongy material that cushions the bones (vertebrae) in the spine and helps them move smoothly. As people age, the disks can lose some of their water content, making them less flexible and more prone to injury. 
  • Cervical osteoarthritis (cervical spondylosis) – Cervical osteoarthritis, also known as cervical spondylosis, is a condition that occurs when the bones and joints in the neck (cervical spine) become damaged or worn down over time. It is a type of degenerative joint disease that is caused by the normal wear and tear of the joints, and it is more common in people who are middle-aged or older. 
  • Cervical spinal stenosis Cervical spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal in the neck becomes narrowed, causing pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. The spinal canal is a hollow space in the center of the spine that contains the spinal cord, which is a collection of nerves that transports messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal canal becomes narrowed, it can cause the spinal cord or nerve roots to become compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and other symptoms. 
  • Cervical spondylosis – Cervical spondylosis is a common condition that affects the neck (cervical) region of the spine. It is typically a result of age-related changes in the spine, such as the wear and tear of the intervertebral discs and the development of bone spurs (osteophytes). These changes can cause the neck to become stiff and painful and can also put pressure on the nerves that pass through the neck. 
  • Cervical radiculopathy – Cervical radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm or hand. It is often caused by cervical spondylosis.  

Why Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers?

Lonseth Interventional Pain Centers is the ideal facility for cervical epidural steroid injections. Our knowledgeable team of double board-certified doctors are experienced in delivering this particular type of pain relief. We are dedicated to delivering our New Orleans and Metairie patients the finest quality care to help manage their pain and get them back to their daily activities. 

Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections FAQ

The patient is usually given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the injection will be given. Your doctor will then use a fluoroscope, a special X-ray that produces real-time images, to guide the needle to the correct location in the epidural space. Once the needle is in place, the healthcare provider will inject the steroid medication.  

An epidural steroid injection typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. 

Patients may experience mild side effects such as tenderness at the injection site, headache, and dizziness. These side effects usually go away within a few days. It is also common to experience some relief from neck and shoulder pain within a day or two of the injection. However, the full effects of the injection may not be apparent for several days or even weeks. 

A cervical epidural steroid injection is not generally painful. Patients may feel some pressure during the initial injection, but this should be minimal. The area is also usually numbed with a local anesthetic before the injection to minimize the discomfort.