Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection

Chronic back pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica can have a profound impact on your quality of life, limiting your mobility and ability to perform everyday tasks. An effective treatment option for managing these types of pain is an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection. Dr. Vadim Lipel, a leading pain management specialist in Encino, California, offers this minimally invasive procedure to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve your mobility.

What is an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection?

An Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection involves the administration of a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space of the spine, which is located just outside the protective covering of the spinal cord. This injection is typically used to treat pain caused by inflammation around the spinal nerves in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spine.

The term “interlaminar” refers to the technique used to deliver the injection between the bony laminae of the vertebrae. This allows the medication to be precisely delivered to the areas where the nerves are inflamed, offering targeted relief from conditions such as:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Sciatica
• Degenerative disc disease
• Radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating from the spine)

Benefits of Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection

• Pain Relief: The primary benefit of an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection is the reduction of inflammation around the spinal nerves, leading to significant pain relief.
• Improved Mobility: By alleviating pain, patients often experience improved flexibility and mobility, allowing them to resume daily activities with less discomfort.
• Non-Surgical Solution: This injection provides a non-invasive option to manage chronic back and leg pain, helping patients avoid surgery while addressing the underlying cause of their symptoms.
• Quick Procedure with Minimal Downtime: The injection is typically performed on an outpatient basis and requires minimal downtime, allowing most patients to return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure.

How the Procedure Works

The Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection is a precise procedure performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Dr. Vadim Lipel may use fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray technique, to guide the needle to the correct location in the spine. This ensures the corticosteroid medication is delivered exactly where it’s needed for maximum effect.

The corticosteroid medication helps reduce inflammation and swelling around the spinal nerves, which often causes chronic pain. In addition to the steroid, a local anesthetic is also used to provide immediate pain relief, allowing patients to feel better during and right after the procedure.

What to Expect After the Injection

After an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection, you may experience some immediate relief from pain due to the anesthetic. However, it may take a few days for the full effects of the corticosteroid medication to be felt. Some patients may experience mild soreness or temporary discomfort at the injection site. Dr. Lipel will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and help manage any temporary pain or discomfort that may occur.

Is an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection Right for You?

This treatment is especially beneficial for patients suffering from conditions such as:

• Herniated or bulging discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Radiculopathy (nerve pain radiating down the arms or legs)
• Sciatica
• Degenerative disc disease
• Chronic lower back or neck pain

If you’re experiencing chronic back pain or radiating leg pain and haven’t found relief from other treatments, an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection may be a suitable option. Dr. Vadim Lipel will thoroughly evaluate your condition to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are struggling with chronic pain and want a non-surgical solution, an Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injection may be the answer. Dr. Vadim Lipel’s extensive experience in pain management and his commitment to providing personalized care make him the right choice for anyone looking to regain their quality of life. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how this treatment can help alleviate your pain.