Overview
An epidural steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medicine into the epidural space (just outside the membrane covering the spinal cord and nerves). It’s commonly used for sciatica or arm pain from a pinched nerve and for spinal stenosis. The goal is to reduce nerve inflammation, so pain and function improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, ESIs are widely used and considered safe when done by trained clinicians using imaging guidance.
They commonly provide short-term pain relief; long-term benefit varies.
Typically, days to a few months; some patients may need repeat injections.
In many cases it helps avoid or delay surgery, depending on severity.
Usually an MRI or CT is used beforehand to identify the pain source.
