Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
Chronic lower back pain can be debilitating, significantly impacting your ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy an active lifestyle. One of the most effective treatments for managing this pain is a Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection. At Dr. Vadim Lipel’s pain management practice in Encino, California, we offer this treatment to help relieve lower back pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica.What is a Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection?
A Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection is a minimally invasive procedure where a corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space of the lower spine, near the caudal (tailbone) area. The epidural space surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots, and inflammation in this area can lead to significant pain. The corticosteroid medication works by reducing inflammation around the spinal nerves, providing relief from pain, and improving mobility.Benefits of Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
- Pain Relief: The primary benefit of a Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection is the reduction in pain and inflammation, providing significant relief for patients suffering from chronic lower back pain.
- Improved Functionality: By alleviating pain, many patients experience improved mobility and functionality, allowing them to resume regular activities and improve their quality of life.
- Non-Surgical Solution: This injection offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery, helping patients manage their pain without the need for more complex procedures.
- Minimal Downtime: The procedure is quick and typically does not require downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily routine soon after the treatment.
How the Procedure Works
During the procedure, Dr. Vadim Lipel will carefully guide a needle to the caudal area of the spine. The injection is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the process. In many cases, Dr. Lipel may use fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray) to precisely guide the needle and ensure the medication is accurately delivered to the epidural space. The corticosteroid medication injected into the epidural space works to reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves, which is often the root cause of chronic lower back pain. The procedure itself is relatively quick, usually taking about 15-30 minutes to complete.What to Expect After the Injection
After the injection, you may feel some immediate relief, but the full effects of the medication typically take several days to develop. It’s common to experience a temporary increase in pain before the medication begins to work. Dr. Lipel will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you manage any post-procedure discomfort and ensure the best results.Is a Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection Right for You?
Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections are particularly beneficial for patients with chronic lower back pain caused by conditions such as:- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Sciatica
- Degenerative disc disease
- Post-surgical pain