Sciatica Epidural Injections
Experiencing persistent back pain that radiates down your leg, tingling, numbness or loss of strength? These are classic signs of Sciatica, a condition that occurs when the large sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer epidural steroid injections designed to target the root of your sciatica, reduce inflammation around the nerve root, and improve your mobility and comfort.
What Are Epidural Steroid Injections for Sciatica?
A sciatica epidural injection is a minimally invasive procedure in which a corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication) and often a local anaesthetic are delivered into the epidural space, the area around the nerve roots emerging from the spine. By placing the medication close to the affected nerve, the treatment helps reduce inflammation and irritation, resulting in pain relief and better function.
Conditions Treated & Who Benefits
Epidural injections may be considered when sciatica is caused by:
- A herniated (slipped) disc pressing on the nerve root.
- Degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis that causes nerve compression.
- Persistent leg pain, numbness, tingling or weakness extending from the lower back into the hip, thigh or calf.
If you have tried conservative measures (physiotherapy, activity modification, pain medication) and still have active symptoms limiting your daily life, the injection may be a suitable next step.
The Procedure
At Alton Pain Clinic, your journey begins with a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and any imaging. If an epidural injection is deemed appropriate, the procedure typically follows:
- You’ll be positioned comfortably (often lying on your belly or side), and the injection site is cleaned and numbed.
- Using imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy or ultrasound), the clinician guides a fine needle into the epidural space near the irritated nerve root.
- A mixture of corticosteroid and anaesthetic is injected, aiming to calm the inflammation and deliver relief.
- You are monitored briefly and then discharged with aftercare advice.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic, takes about 15–30 minutes, and involves minimal downtime.
Benefits of the Treatment
- Pain relief: Many patients report a noticeable reduction in leg pain and nerve symptoms within days.
- Reduced inflammation: Directly targets irritated nerve roots and helps decrease swelling and irritation.
- Improved function: Alleviating pain often allows you to start or accelerate rehabilitation and return to daily activities.
- Delay or avoid surgery: For some, the injection provides sufficient relief to postpone or avoid more invasive treatment.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we combine the injection with a tailored recovery plan including physiotherapy, activity guidance and ongoing support, helping you achieve long-term improvement.
What our patients say
FAQs
How soon will I feel relief?
Some patients begin to notice relief within 2–7 days, although the full effect may take a few weeks.
How long will the relief last?
Relief can last a few weeks to several months, depending on the underlying cause and how well you follow your rehabilitation plan.
Is the injection painful?
You may feel a small pinch or pressure when the needle is inserted, but most patients tolerate the procedure well thanks to anaesthetic and imaging guidance.
How many epidural injections can I have?
Generally, up to 2 to 3 injections per year may be appropriate, subject to your response and clinical guidance.
What are the risks or side effects?
Side-effects are uncommon but can include a temporary increase in pain, bruising at the site, raised blood sugar (in diabetics), or headache. Rare but serious complications (nerve injury, infection) are very uncommon when the procedure is done by an experienced specialist.