To view a color brochure of the instructions for this procedure, click here.

The Pain Treatment team has suggested a transforaminal lumbar epidural block to treat your pain. This procedure will be completed at the Pain Treatment Center using flouro guidance (low-dose X-ray). This procedure is completed in a series of three,two-three weeks apart.

An epidural steroid injection is indicated for such conditions as spinal stenosis, herniated disc, or degenerative disc disease.

The nurse will perform a short assessment and provide you with suitable attire. You will lie on your stomach for approximately 10-20 minutes the radiological technologist, nurse, and physician will be present during the entire procedure.

The physician will instill a local anesthetic. When the area is numb a needle will be positioned at the appropriate location. Through this needle a long acting anti-inflammatory (steroid) called Kenalog will be placed.

We ask that you not drive home after the procedure, if you must drive please make the physician aware. You will be required to maintain light activities for 48 hours. After this time period you may increase your activities slowly. You may notice immediate relief but it may not be noted for a week following the procedure.

Side effects of this procedure are soreness at the injection site. Pain may be exacerbated (worsened) for the first 48 hours. On rare occasions complications may occur such as infection, bruising, or hematoma (blood leaking under the skin).