Epidurals, Injections and Shots
for Back Pain & Sciatica
What is an Epidural Injection?
An epidural injection is a medical procedure in which a local anesthetic and/or steroid medication is injected into the epidural space of the cervical, thoracic or lumbar region. The medication is delivered through a thin needle that is guided under X-ray guidance or ultrasound guidance.
The local anesthetic numbs the area and provides immediate pain relief, while the steroid medication reduces inflammation and provides longer-term pain relief. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and may require multiple injections over a period of time for optimal effect.
This is a non-surgical treatment option that will help alleviate acute pain and inflammation in the neck, arms, lower back and legs caused by a variety of conditions, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica. By reducing pain, an epidural injection can improve mobility and allow the patient to perform daily activities with greater ease.
Our pain management experts will be able to properly diagnose your condition and recommend what is the optimal treatment for you.
Consider These Treatments
Epidural Steroid Injections
Facet Joint Injections
A facet joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints in the spine.
Nerve Root Block Injections
Nerve root block injections is a pain management procedure used to diagnose or relieve pain caused by irritated or inflamed spinal nerves. These injections target the area where a spinal nerve exits the spine, called the nerve root.
Take the First Step Towards Pain Relief
If you’re experiencing persistent or chronic pain, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you manage your pain and regain your quality of life.
Why Are Injections Used for
Back Pain & Sciatica?
Targeted Pain Relief
Injections deliver medication directly to the source of the pain, such as inflamed nerve roots, joints, or muscles, providing more immediate and concentrated relief than oral medications.
Minimally Invasive
Unlike surgical options, injection treatments are minimally invasive, usually requiring only a needle and some form of image guidance (like fluoroscopy) for accurate placement.
Reduced Inflammation
Corticosteroid injections are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce swelling, providing long-lasting pain relief and improving mobility.
Intervention Before Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an epidural steroid injection and how does it work?
An epidural steroid injection (ESI) delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves. It reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and can improve mobility for conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, and spinal stenosis.
2. What is the difference between lumbar and cervical epidural injections?
Lumbar epidural injections target the lower back to treat leg and lower back pain, while cervical injections target the neck and upper spine to relieve arm or neck pain. Both aim to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
3. Who is a good candidate for an epidural injection in Los Angeles?
Candidates include patients with chronic back or neck pain, sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis who haven’t responded to conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy. Your provider will evaluate your medical history before treatment.
4. How much does an epidural steroid injection cost in Los Angeles?
The cost of an epidural steroid injection in Los Angeles varies by facility, whether the procedure is done in an office or ambulatory surgery center, the spinal region being treated, imaging guidance, sedation needs, and insurance coverage. Patients should confirm fees in advance when possible.
5. Are epidural injections safe?
Epidural injections are generally considered safe when performed by trained specialists using appropriate technique and imaging guidance. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, temporary increased pain, headache, steroid-related side effects, nerve injury, and, in rare cases, more serious complications.
6. How long does it take to feel relief after an epidural injection?
Some patients feel improvement within a few days, while others may take one to two weeks to notice benefit. The degree and duration of relief vary, and not every patient responds.
7. How long does an epidural injection procedure take?
The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, including preparation, imaging guidance, and post-injection observation. Most patients return home the same day.
8. Can I get an epidural injection near me in Los Angeles?
Epidural injections are available at pain management practices in Los Angeles, including clinics that offer expedited consultations or procedures when appropriate. Availability depends on scheduling, the need for prior evaluation, and insurance or facility requirements.
9. What conditions can a cervical epidural injection treat in Beverly Hills?
Cervical epidural injections are used to treat neck pain, herniated discs, pinched nerves, and radiating arm pain. They reduce inflammation around the cervical spine to relieve pain and improve function.
10. How many epidural injections can I safely receive per year?
The number of epidural steroid injections a patient can reasonably receive in a year depends on the diagnosis, steroid exposure, prior response, and the treating physician’s judgment. Many practices limit repeated steroid injections and individualize treatment rather than using a fixed number for every patient.