Epidural Steroid Injection

An injection of an anti-inflammatory medicine into the lower back to reduce swelling of nerves.

Information:

• It usually takes three (3) to seven (7) days to start relieving pain.

Instructions:

1. You may be placed on a special diet.
2. Resume regular medicine.
3. Resume same level of activity the day after injection or prior to injection.
4. Do not drive until the day after injection.

Call your doctor if you have any questions or if any of the following occur within 72 hours (3 days) of leaving the hospital:

1. Fever of 101 degrees F or above.
2. Any new numbness or weakness that was not there before the injection.
3. Any new bowel or bladder problems (such as inability to urinate or loss of bladder control).
4. A persistent headache.
5. Redness, drainage or pain at puncture site.

If unable to contact your doctor and feel you have an emergency, go the Emergency Department.