Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

At Compass Pain & Wellness, we view epidural steroid injections as one part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program, integrating interventional procedures, physical therapy, and advanced modalities to help you achieve lasting relief and restored function.

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UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

What Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection?

Targeted Spinal Relief

A lumbar epidural steroid injection (LESI) is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers a corticosteroid and anesthetic into the epidural space of the lower spine. This area surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots in the lumbar region, where inflammation or compression often causes pain radiating into the legs and lower back.

Effective Pain Management

LESI reduces inflammation around irritated or compressed nerves and relieves lower back and leg pain caused by nerve irritation. It helps patients regain mobility and resume daily activities, and may delay or prevent the need for surgical intervention.

Safe, Guided Treatment

At Compass Pain and Wellness, our experienced interventional pain specialists perform these injections with fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance in our in-office procedural suite, ensuring both safety and precision in a calm, supportive environment.
TREATMENT AREAS

What Symptoms and Conditions Does It Treat?

Lumbar epidural steroid injections are commonly used to treat pain originating from nerve root irritation or compression in the lower spine - often referred to as lumbar radiculopathy or sciatica.

These injections are most effective for nerve-based pain (radiculopathy) rather than isolated muscular or mechanical back pain.
the process

How Does It Work?

The lumbar epidural steroid injection works by delivering medication directly to the area of irritation in the epidural space, close to the inflamed nerve roots.

Two Primary Effects:

Anti-Inflammatory Relief:

  • The corticosteroid suppresses inflammation, reducing swelling and pressure on the affected nerves
  • It helps restore normal nerve function and reduces chemical irritation in the epidural space.

Nerve Signal Interruption:

  • A local anesthetic provides immediate, though temporary, pain relief.
  • This effect helps confirm that the targeted nerve is the source of the pain.

Procedure Technique

  • Conducted under fluoroscopic imaging for precise needle placement
  • A small amount of contrast dye ensures correct positioning before medication delivery
  • Medication spreads along the epidural space, bathing the irritated nerves

At Compass Pain and Wellness, every procedure is customized for your specific diagnosis and anatomy to achieve the best results possible.

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IDEAL CANDIDATES

Who Is a Good Candidate?

A lumbar epidural steroid injection may be recommended for patients with:

  • Persistent low back or leg pain (sciatica) from nerve compression
  • MRI or CT evidence of disc herniation, stenosis, or inflammation
  • Pain not adequately managed by:
    • Physical therapy
    • NSAIDs or other conservative treatments
    • Lifestyle modifications or home exercise programs

Not recommended if:

  • You have an active infection or systemic illness
  • You’re taking anticoagulants that cannot be safely paused
  • You have unstable spine conditions or progressive neurological symptoms.

Our specialists carefully evaluate each patient to ensure a safe and evidence-based treatment plan that fits within a comprehensive pain management program.

THE PROCESS

What to Expect on Procedure Day

When you arrive at Compass Pain and Wellness, our team will walk you through every step of your care.

Pre-Procedure Review:

  • We’ll confirm your medical history and explain each step of the process.
  • You’ll change into comfortable attire and be positioned face down on the procedure table.

Anesthesia & Imaging:

  • The injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
  • Under fluoroscopic X-ray guidance, the physician directs a thin needle into the epidural space.

Injection:

  • A contrast dye confirms exact placement.
  • The steroid and anesthetic mixture is slowly injected around the affected nerves.

Observation & Discharge:

  • You’ll rest in our recovery area for a short period before discharge.
  • A friend or family member should drive you home.

The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes, including preparation and recovery.

Typical Recovery Experience:

  • Mild tenderness or numbness at the injection site is common.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours.
  • Ice packs can help relieve temporary soreness.

Recovery Timeline:

  • Some patients notice immediate relief from the local anesthetic.
  • The steroid effect generally begins within 2–5 days and may continue to improve for several weeks.

Our care team will provide personalized post-procedure instructions for your recovery.

A key advantage to receiving care at Compass is that your physician can coordinate directly with our in-house physical therapist to develop the most effective rehabilitation plan for you. In addition, we may integrate red-light therapy, PEMF, or other auxiliary modalities to accelerate tissue healing and optimize your outcome.

Together, these services help maximize your recovery, restore mobility, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

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proven outcomes

What Kind of Results Can You Expect?

Results depend on several factors, including the cause of your pain, the severity of inflammation, and your participation in post-procedure rehabilitation.

While LESIs can provide powerful pain relief on their own, their greatest value is often in creating a window for active rehabilitation. This allows patients to strengthen core and spinal-support muscles, correct posture, and improve long-term spine health.
the Compass Difference

Your Complete Care Team

If you’re struggling with chronic lower back or leg pain, contact Compass Pain and Wellness today. Our multidisciplinary team will determine whether a lumbar epidural steroid injection could be the right step toward lasting comfort, function, and wellness.

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