CERVIcAL EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTIONS
A cervical epidural steroid injection is a treatment method for pain in the neck and the upper region of the back. Upper back and neck pain reportedly affects 50-80% of adults at some point in their lives. There are numerous conditions that may cause neck and upper back pain such as cervical radiculitis, a herniated disc, strained muscles, and pinched nerves.
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The same concept can be applied for the lumbar (lower back) region.
Dr. Ali is great doctor! I want people to come see him because he will help people with their pain. I wouldn't trade Dr. Ali for anything. He has helped me so much!
- Enriqueta Ornelas
not image of actual patient
What is it?
One of the most effective forms of treatment for cervical radiculitis and chronic neck pain is a cervical epidural steroid injection. Research shows that an epidural steroid injection can rapidly reduce pain and completely alleviate pain for some individuals. The mechanism of action for steroid injections is still being studied, but it has been proposed that the medication, particularly the steroid that is injected, targets inflammation. Steroids also have additional useful properties that make them especially effective, which include an ability to promote the stability of the membranes surrounding the nerves and to hinder the conduction of ions. These processes are associated with reduced pain.
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A meta-analysis study that focused on reviewing clinical reports regarding the effectiveness and safety of steroid injections, included data that was obtained over a span of ten years. The results showed strong support for the administration of epidural steroid injections to treat chronic pain.
Conditions it treats
Most common conditions are nerve pain or compressed nerves are causing a patient to experience neck or upper back pain.
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Additional conditions that can be treated with cervical epidural steroid injections are:
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A herniated disc: This occurs when one of the discs that act as a cushion between spinal vertebrae, ruptures, causing some of the jelly-like substance to leak out, irritating nearby nerves.
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Cervical spondylosis: This relates to damage to spinal discs in the neck, as a result of age-related wear and tear.
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Cervical radiculopathy: This refers to pain that results from any kind of condition or injury that causes damage to the nerves in the neck.
