Understanding Spinal Injections: What Can They Do for Your Back Pain?

When faced with chronic back pain, a prevalent solution recommended by health professionals is spinal injection therapy. But what exactly are these injections, and how do they help alleviate pain?

The Fundamentals of Spinal Injections

Spinal injections come in various types and target specific pain-causing structures within the spine. They can be broadly categorized into two:

Diagnostic block – These are test injections where only a contrast agent and local anesthetic are used. Their primary purpose is to identify the source of your back pain.
Therapeutic injections – Used to treat the pain, these injections aim at reducing the inflammation and discomfort associated with back problems.

Primary Targets for Corticosteroid Injection Therapy

Epidural Space: This is the region surrounding the spinal cord where nerve roots exit and stretch to other parts of the body. If you’ve heard of conditions like sciatica or have experienced sharp, shooting pains down your leg, it’s likely because of issues in this area. Harvard Health delves into what you can expect from steroid injections in this space.

Tendons and Bursae: Inflammation in these areas can also contribute to chronic back pain.

Conditions Treated with Epidural Steroid Injections

Some of the common back pain issues treated with these injections include:

Herniated disc or slipped disc
Lumbar or cervical radiculopathy
Spinal stenosis
Sciatica

Corticosteroids, potent anti-inflammatory medications, can significantly reduce inflammation when introduced into the epidural space, especially around an irritated nerve. If you’d like to dive deeper, the Hospital for Special Surgery offers a comprehensive FAQ on epidural injections.

The Role of a Physiatrist in Back Pain Treatment

When considering treatment options for back pain, consulting a physiatrist, a specialist in spine care, is beneficial. They can explain the risks associated with each injection type and set appropriate treatment goals. According to a post from Harvard Health, many find relief from conservative care or injections alone.

In Conclusion

If you or a loved one is grappling with back or neck pain, remember that spinal injection therapy, when combined with other therapies like medications and physical therapy, can provide significant relief. Institutions like the University of Michigan and the University of Virginia offer a range of spinal injections suited to individual needs. Always consult with your health care provider to determine the best course of action for your specific condition.