When done by a skilled and experienced physician, it is safe and effective for some of the most common types of pain.
Still doubting the efficacy of this injection for sciatica nerve pain and back pain?
Read on to learn more about epidural for back pain pros and cons, and find out if it’s the right treatment for you.
Epidural for Back Pain: Pros and Cons
Below, we list down some of the pros and cons of getting an epidural for back pain:
- Pros
- Generally, epidural injections are non-invasive and safe, especially when done by an experienced and skilled medical practitioner. It may be used to treat lower back pain when sneezing, upper back pain after running, and other conditions.
- Patients can return to their normal day-to-day routine the next day after the procedure.
- The injection can be used to relieve back pain, as well as pain in the neck and leg.
- Low risk with minimal side effects.
- Epidural injections for back pain have a high success rate. The effects can last for several days or years.
- Generally, epidural injections are non-invasive and safe, especially when done by an experienced and skilled medical practitioner. It may be used to treat lower back pain when sneezing, upper back pain after running, and other conditions.
- Cons
- If done by an inexperienced doctor, the procedure can be risky. A misplaced needle can irritate the already inflamed spinal nerves further.
- Some patients may experience low blood pressure and heart rate.
- It may cause some side effects, such as itching, weakness in the legs, and skin infection. Other possible side effects (though rare) may include bleeding, nerve damage, dural puncture, high blood sugar levels, or cataracts.
- If done by an inexperienced doctor, the procedure can be risky. A misplaced needle can irritate the already inflamed spinal nerves further.
Generally, epidurals are safe for back pain management.
However, make sure to consult your doctor first to make sure that you don’t have any underlying conditions that may be at risk with steroids and needles.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All information contained on this website is for general information purposes only.