What the treatment does
An epidural injection delivers medication near spinal nerves, usually with X-ray guidance. The approach is chosen according to anatomy and the symptoms being treated.
Who may be considered
It may be considered for selected nerve-related arm or leg pain. It is not a general treatment for every cause of back pain.
Expectations and risks
Benefit and duration vary. Risks include bleeding, infection, headache, medication effects, and rare serious neurologic injury. Discuss anticoagulants, diabetes, allergies, and prior surgery with your clinician.
Questions to ask at your visit
- Which pain source is this treatment intended to address?
- What are the alternatives in my case?
- What improvement should we measure, and when?
- What restrictions and follow-up will I need?
This guide is general education. Eligibility, technique, and recovery depend on your individual circumstances.
Learn more: Johns Hopkins spinal cord stimulation guide · Interventional treatment overview