Epidural Steroid Injection for Back Pain: Low Cost Technique for Rural Areas

By Dr. J. Gnanaraj and Dr.(Prof) Sekar Michael | Published: Sep 2017 Volume: 6

Epidural steroid injections have been used for low back pain and leg pain since 1952 and often the first line of minimally invasive treatment [1]. However, the benefit is often temporary lasting up to six weeks [2]. Hence the American Academy of Neurology’s recommendation is to use this treatment only for short term benefits and to be aware of the side effects and complications.

SIDE EFFECTS

The injections can occasionally cause

• "steroid flush," a flushing of the face and chest with a feeling of warmth and increase of temperature over several days
• headache
• sleeping difficulties
• anxiety
• nausea
• diarrhea
• water retention
• a temporary increase in pain for a few days

They are also contraindication in uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension and those taking medicines for anticoagulation or prevention of platelet adhesions.
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