Treatment of Spinal Conditions Using Epidural Injections

Living with chronic or recurrent pain may be challenging. Regular activities that were once easier to partake in may become difficult. Medications such as over-the-counter drugs may only offer temporary pain relief. However, epidural injection in New Brunswick is efficient in the treatment of joint pains.

What is an epidural injection?

An epidural injection is a treatment method used to relieve pain from different parts of your body, such as the lower back, by suppressing pain signals transmitted by spinal nerves to the brain. Epidural injections may contain steroids or local anesthesia.

There are two types of steroids used in epidural injections including:

·         Particulate steroids. Examples include methylprednisolone and triamcinolone. This type of steroid contains large particles that don’t dissolve in water. The solid particles collect at the area where nerves are compressed and offer relief from pain.

·         Non-particulate steroids. They are made up of small particles which are water-soluble. However, relieving effects are shorter compared to that of particulate steroids.

This treatment method is commonly used to minimize back pain caused by different spinal conditions that include:

Spinal stenosis

This condition occurs when the spaces in your spine contract. Narrowing of the spinal canal exerts pressure and causes nerve compression. If you have spinal stenosis, you may experience numbness, pain, and muscle weakness. However, sometimes symptoms may be absent. Medical conditions such as osteoarthritis wear bones in your body and increase your chances of developing spinal stenosis.

Sciatica or lumbar radiculopathy

Sciatica is a term used to describe pain radiating from your lower back, through the butt, and down to your left or right leg. Sciatic pain occurs when there is compression or pinching of nerve roots in the lumbosacral spine. Besides pain, you may experience tingling and muscle weakness. However, these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have sciatica. It is therefore essential to seek medical help from your doctor to determine the cause of your pain.

Spondylosis

The spine is made up of 33 vertebral columns. Between each vertebra is a disc that provides cushioning and makes your spine flexible. Spondylosis is a form of arthritis caused when spinal bones degenerate as you advance in age. Bones in your body have cartilage covering that prevents friction and allows bones to glide over each other smoothly. Over time this cartilage may wear down and result in pain upon particular movements such as bending. This condition may worsen as you grow older.

Herniated disc

Vertebral discs in your spine have a tough outer covering known as annulus fibrous and consist of a nucleus pulposus on the inside. These layers act as shock absorbers and provide cushioning to the spine. Rupturing of the disc’s outer layer may cause fluid to leak into your spinal cord. The gel consists of a chemical irritant that causes nerve inflammation, severe pain, and weakness in your arm or leg.

Besides minimizing inflammation in the joints, epidural injections may also reduce pain after a surgical procedure. You do not have to endure discomfort every day. Schedule an appointment with your specialist at Pain & Anesthesia Care for joint treatment and enjoy a pain-free life.