What Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI)?

Lumbar epidural steroid injections are one of the most commonly used treatments for nerve-related back pain, particularly when symptoms radiate down the legs.

What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An ESI delivers anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space around the spinal nerves.

This helps reduce:

Inflammation
Nerve irritation
Radiating pain

What Conditions Does It Treat?

ESIs are commonly used for:

Herniated discs
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
Lumbar radiculopathy

Types of Epidural Injections

There are different approaches depending on your condition:

Interlaminar – broader distribution of medication
Transforaminal – more targeted to a specific nerve root

The approach is chosen based on imaging and symptoms.

What to Expect

Performed under imaging guidance
Quick outpatient procedure
Minimal downtime

How Effective Is It?

Many patients experience:

Significant reduction in leg pain
Improved mobility
Better tolerance for physical therapy

ESIs are not just about pain relief — they create an opportunity for healing and rehabilitation.