Spinal injections, typically used to treat back pain, are also used to diagnostically locate the source of pain. The specific procedure will differ depending on where the pain is located.
Spinal Injections include:
- Selective nerve root block (SNRB)
- Transforaminal epidural injection (TFESI)
- Intra-articular facet injections
- Medial Branch Blocks
- Sacroiliac joint injection
- Hip joint injections
- Discography
What to expect
During your visit to our Vancouver practice, you will undergo a detailed assessment to provide Dr. Helper with the information necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Dr. Helper will perform a diagnostic injection under live x-ray guidance to place local anaesthetic at the suspected source of pain. If the injection reduces or alleviates the patient’s symptoms, then the source of pain is likely located.
Once Dr. Helper is confident about the diagnosis, you may be a candidate for therapeutic injections. Most therapeutic spinal injections use a powerful anti-inflammatory medication called corticosteroids. Using live x-ray guidance, your doctor has the ability to precisely inject this medication where it will provide the greatest benefit. Depending on the particular procedure, you may be asked to walk or stand to recreate your pain symptoms. If you are pain free, it is likely the targeted area plays a major role in your daily discomfort and further treatment will be recommended.
After the Procedure
Patients are usually discharged home within an hour of the procedure along with written instructions. The area around the injection site will feel numb for one to two hours following the injection. Steroids may cause some side effects that could last for 2 to 3 days.
Next Steps
If you are ready to discuss your pain management needs with Dr. Steven Helper, request a consultation today. During your consultation your patient care coordinator will discuss:
- Your medical history
- Diagnosis and Treatment options
- Potential risks and complications
One Comment
I have a stage 2 spondylolithsesis. L5/S1
Diagnosed about 4 yrs. ago. Have been able to function with exercise and stretching.
Recently, I have been getting lower back pain, and radiating pain in my right leg. Also, quite a tingling sensation in both legs with typical sciatica felt in both legs just behind the knee cap.
I am 63 years old. I work out daily and am considered to by in excellent health.
My feeling is that this condition is worsening. I do not want to have a spinal fusion etc. when I am much older, for obvious reasons. However, I don’t want to be the author of my own fate with respect to bringing about more pain after the sugery than I have now.
I know there is no crystal ball, but I would be interested in your comments. Thank you. …..Doug.