Overview
When a spinal nerve becomes inflamed due to disc bulge, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes, pain may travel from the lower back into the buttock or leg. An epidural steroid injection delivers anti inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the nerves. The aim is to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve roots and help relieve pain linked to irritation or compression.
This approach may provide short to medium term pain relief and can support physiotherapy by making movement more comfortable. In some cases, an epidural steroid injection also helps confirm whether a specific nerve root is contributing to symptoms.
Who This Treatment Helps
An epidural steroid injection may be suitable for people with:
- Sciatica or leg pain caused by nerve irritation
- Disc bulges or herniations
- Spinal stenosis
- Persistent low back pain with nerve related features
- Pain not improving with conservative treatment
- Difficulty engaging in rehabilitation due to pain
A specialist assessment is needed to confirm whether an epidural steroid injection is appropriate and whether the pattern of pain matches nerve related inflammation.
What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection
An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive procedure in which a fine needle is placed into the epidural space and a combination of steroid and local anaesthetic is delivered. Imaging guidance is used to ensure accurate placement and improve safety.
The procedure aims to reduce inflammation around irritated nerves rather than correct structural spinal changes. For many patients, this can ease symptoms enough to improve mobility, daily function, and participation in rehabilitation.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your treatment usually involves the following steps:
- Consultant review and planning
- Comfortable positioning on the procedure table
- Local anaesthetic to numb the skin
- Image guided needle placement
- Medication delivery into the epidural space
- Brief monitoring before discharge
The procedure is usually carried out as a day case and typically takes a short time to complete.
After the Procedure
After an epidural steroid injection, temporary numbness or heaviness may occur for a short period. Mild soreness at the injection site is also common. Pain relief may develop gradually over several days, and physiotherapy is often encouraged once symptoms begin to settle.
Benefits
- Reduces nerve inflammation
- May ease sciatica and leg pain
- Minimally invasive
- Supports rehabilitation
- Short recovery time
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Possible risks and side effects of an epidural steroid injection include:
- Temporary pain flare
- Local soreness
- Headache
- Temporary leg weakness
- Infection, which is rare
Your consultant will discuss individual risks, expected benefits, and suitability before treatment.
When to Consider Other Options
If symptoms persist, other options may be discussed depending on the diagnosis. These may include facet joint block or ablation, nerve root blocks, physiotherapy, or other minimally invasive procedures. Treatment should always be matched to the likely source of pain.
Safety Note
Inform your consultant about medications, allergies, or medical conditions before the procedure. You may also need to arrange transport home if sedation is used.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether an epidural steroid injection may be suitable for you.
You can also explore our low back pain treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our minimally invasive procedures.