Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a common treatment option for many forms of lower back pain and leg pain. They have been used for decades and are considered an integral part of the non surgical management of sciatica and lower back pain. The injection is named an epidural steroid injection because it involves injecting a local anesthetic and a steroid medication directly into the epidural space that surrounds the spinal cord and nerve roots.
The goals of an epidural steroid injection are to:
- Control pain by reducing inflammation in and around the nerve roots
- Improve mobility and function in the lower back and legs
- Allow the patient to participate in and make progress with a comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation program
