A herniated lumbar disc occurs when the discs between the vertebrae bulge outward and press on the nerve roots. This pressure can cause pain radiating to the lower back, hip and leg, along with numbness and loss of strength. In a significant proportion of patients, complaints subside with rest, medication and physiotherapy.
When pain persists despite conservative treatment, an epidural steroid injection is an important option before moving on to surgery. In the procedure, a mixture of steroid and local anaesthetic is applied to the epidural space outside the membrane surrounding the spinal cord, reducing inflammation and swelling at the nerve root.
The injection is performed with a fine needle under fluoroscopy (C-arm X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, so that the medication reaches exactly the target area. The procedure usually takes 15-20 minutes, is a day case, and most patients return home the same day.
The epidural injection is preferred especially for pain radiating to the leg (sciatica-type), in cases where surgery is being considered but the patient wishes to postpone it, and for pain that continues after surgery. Although its effect varies from person to person, it can last for weeks to months and may be repeated when necessary.
Not every patient is suitable for this method. Bleeding disorders, active infection or the use of certain medications must be evaluated before the procedure. Your specialist plans the most appropriate treatment for you by assessing your MRI findings and complaints together.
