Lumbar Epidural steroid injection

Chronic lower back pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica. When these conditions lead to nerve inflammation or compression, the pain can be severe and debilitating. If you are struggling with persistent lower back pain, a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection may be the solution to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility. Dr. Vadim Lipel, a trusted pain management specialist in Encino, California, offers this effective, minimally invasive treatment to help you regain control of your life.

What is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection?

A Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection is a procedure where corticosteroid medication is injected into the epidural space of the lumbar spine, which is the lower part of your back. The epidural space surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots, and inflammation or compression in this area can lead to significant pain, which may radiate down the legs (sciatica). The injection delivers a combination of corticosteroid medication, which reduces inflammation, and a local anesthetic, which provides immediate pain relief.

This injection is commonly used to treat pain caused by conditions such as:

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

Benefits of Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

• Pain Relief: The primary benefit of a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection is the reduction of inflammation and pain around the spinal nerves in the lumbar region, providing significant relief for chronic lower back pain.
• Improved Mobility: By alleviating pain and inflammation, many patients experience improved flexibility and range of motion, allowing them to return to normal activities.
• Non-Surgical Solution: This injection offers a non-invasive, effective alternative to surgery for treating chronic lower back pain and its associated symptoms.
• Quick Procedure with Minimal Downtime: The procedure is relatively quick and typically performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients can resume daily activities shortly after the procedure, making it an ideal treatment option for those seeking rapid relief.

How the Procedure Works

Dr. Vadim Lipel performs the Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection using a precise, minimally invasive technique. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. In many cases, Dr. Lipel uses fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) to guide the needle to the correct location in the epidural space of the lumbar spine. This ensures that the medication is delivered directly to the area where inflammation and nerve compression are present.

Once the needle is properly positioned, a combination of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is injected into the epidural space. The corticosteroid helps to reduce inflammation around the nerve roots, while the local anesthetic provides immediate relief from pain.

What to Expect After the Injection

After the injection, you may experience immediate pain relief due to the local anesthetic, although the full effects of the corticosteroid may take several days to become noticeable. Some patients may experience mild soreness at the injection site or a temporary increase in pain before they feel the full benefits of the medication. Dr. Lipel will provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and help you manage any discomfort.

Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection Right for You?

Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections are particularly beneficial for patients suffering from:

• Herniated or bulging discs in the lumbar spine
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Sciatica (pain radiating down the legs)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Radiculopathy (nerve pain caused by compression in the lumbar spine)
• Facet joint arthritis or inflammation

If you are dealing with chronic lower back pain and have not found relief through other treatments, a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection may be a highly effective option for you. Dr. Vadim Lipel will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your condition.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to take control of your lower back pain and find relief without the need for surgery, a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection may be the solution. Dr. Vadim Lipel’s expertise in pain management and his commitment to providing personalized care make him a trusted choice for patients seeking long-lasting pain relief. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how this procedure can help improve your quality of life.