Introduction
Are you in need of pain relief for your neck or back issues? Does your back pain spread to your arms or legs? Has your doctor recommended spinal injections? Spinal cord injections may sound scary, but they are a quick and easy option for chronic pain relief. These injections are minimally invasive procedures used to reduce pain that is not relieved with more conservative approaches. Understanding the types of back pain injections can go a long way in helping to alleviate fear so you can concentrate on getting better.
Pain reduces a patient’s quality of life and makes healing even harder. At my practice, I specialize in spine health and orthopedic pain relief. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain or an acute injury, my team and I can help you find the right solution.
Types of Back Pain Injections
Epidural Steroid Injections
Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a combination of pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory steroid medicine used to calm irritated nerves and reduce the pressure causing pain. They are injected via one needle into the epidural space of the spine between the vertebrae and the protective sac enclosing the spinal nerves. An epidural steroid injection is not the same as epidural anesthesia given for childbirth. ESI pain relief varies and can last weeks to months.
There are three types of ESIs:
- Lumbar ESI: The shot is given in the lumbar area of the spine. This area consists of five vertebrae found after the thoracic vertebra and before the sacrum (bottom of the spine). It is used to treat radiating chronic pain, known as lumbar radiculopathy (radicular pain). This pain is often felt in the lower back and down the legs, hips, and feet.
- Cervical ESI: This injection is delivered to the epidural space between one of the seven vertebrates of the neck. Like the lumbar ESI, it is used to treat chronic pain originating from the cervical spine. 40% to 84% of ESI recipients felt temporary relief from neck pain.
- Caudal ESI: This injection goes into the epidural space of your lower back. It is used to treat pain from sciatica, herniated discs, degenerative disk diseases, spinal stenosis, and spondylosis (osteoarthritis).
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints are hinge-like joints between the vertebrae of the spine that allow movements like bending and stretching. Facet joint injections (sometimes called facet joint blocks) can be either diagnostic or therapeutic. When injected with pain-relieving medicine, a facet joint injection can provide long-lasting and almost immediate pain relief.
Facet joint injections can be used to treat pain from sciatica, spinal osteoarthritis, whiplash, sports-related injuries, and general back pain management.
Selective Root Nerve Blocks (SRNBs)
SRNBs, sometimes referred to as nerve blocks, are used as both diagnostic and treatment tools. When used to treat pain, an anesthetic (or anesthetic with steroid) is injected near the nerve as it exits the spinal column. SRNBs can last six months to a year.
Selective root nerve blocks can provide pain relief for conditions like spinal stenosis, sciatica, bone spurs, scoliosis, herniated discs, low back pain, or nerve compressions.
Injection Administration and Recovery
Injection Administration
An X-ray-guided procedure called fluoroscopy will guide all types of injections for back pain. This ensures that the doctor is getting the medicine to the right area. During the fluoroscopy, dye is injected via a small syringe into the suspected origin of the pain to confirm proper placement. The needle placement is informed by the live “X-ray movie.” It is usually painless, and after your spinal injection is complete, you can usually go home the same day.
Recovery Time
Recovery from a nerve root block is minimal. The first couple of hours after the injection, some patients may have muscle weakness, but this will fade away with time. If you have concerns about your muscle’s weakness lasting longer than a few hours, talk with your doctor. The injection starts to work within two to three days, with peak performance around 2 weeks.
Stem Cell Therapy Injections
What are Stem Cells?
Stem cells are a special type of cell that can develop into many kinds of cells. This can range from brain cells to muscle cells as well. They can also develop in order to heal damaged tissue.
How Stem Cells Help Back and Neck Pain
Because of stem cells’ ability to develop into different kinds of cells, doctors believe they can be injected into the body to initiate a healing process. Your doctor will use an ultrasound to gauge where to place the stem cells in hopes the body will begin the healing process of damaged tissues in the back or neck.
After the entire treatment is complete, it could take two to four months to notice the full effects. It takes the body time to heal, but this treatment has seen some success in those with back pain!
This new advancement in medicine is a great option for those looking to avoid surgery and rely on the body’s natural healing process.
Choosing the Right Injection
Injections for back pain can be a great option for those looking for a less invasive treatment. Back injections can be a long process, but once you find what works for you, better days are ahead! You will need to work with an orthopedic doctor specializing in the spine for the best treatment possible. At my practice, we offer a range of injection therapies tailored to your specific condition and needs.
FAQs
- How long do the effects of back pain injections last?
The duration of pain relief varies depending on the type of injection and the individual’s condition. Epidural steroid injections typically provide relief for several weeks to months, while selective nerve root blocks can last six months to a year.
- Are back pain injections safe?
Yes, back pain injections are generally considered safe when administered by a qualified healthcare professional. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects that should be discussed with your doctor.
- Will I need multiple injections?
In some cases, multiple injections may be required to achieve optimal pain relief. Your doctor will evaluate your response to the initial injection and determine if additional injections are necessary.
- Can back pain injections cure the underlying condition?
No, back pain injections are not a cure for the underlying condition causing the pain. They are designed to provide temporary relief and improve function, allowing you to participate in other treatments, such as physical therapy or exercise programs.
- Is there any downtime after receiving a back pain injection?
There is typically minimal downtime after receiving a back pain injection. You may experience some soreness or mild side effects, but most patients can resume their normal activities the following day.
- Are back pain injections covered by insurance?
Coverage for back pain injections can vary depending on your insurance plan. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.