Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection

Why Is A Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection Performed?

This type of injection is the best approach for patients who have surgical pins, rods, or bone grafts from previous surgeries. It can also be used as a diagnostic technique to identify a specific nerve root level in the spine that is causing the pain. A Transforaminal epidural steroid injection can help treat pain in the neck, back, arms, or legs and can benefit pain from disc herniation, spinal stenosis, spondylolysis, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or radiculopathy.

How Is A Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection Performed?

You will first be injected with a local anesthetic to numb the area. Next, you will be injected with an anesthetic and a corticosteroid from the side of the vertebrae at the level where the nerve root compression is.

What Should I Expect After A Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection?

After the injection, you may experience some pain and numbness. The steroid will begin working after a few days, but it can take up to two weeks to get the full benefit from the injection. You can resume normal activities the day after the procedure. There may be slight swelling, pain, or tenderness at the injection site. You may use ice packs for 20 minutes at a time to help alleviate this. There is a possibility of side effects, such as:

• Flushing of the face & chest from the steroids
• Anxiety
• Menstrual cycle changes
• Bloating
• Insomnia
• Elevated blood sugar
• Bleeding or infection at the injection site

Most side effects should be mild and last no longer than a few days.