Injections

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Spinal injections and back pain spinal injections are a relatively conservative procedure to help with the diagnosis or treatment of back pain and/or pain that radiates to the arm or the leg. Frequently, these injections are considered prior to surgery as a more conservative option and may eliminate or delay the need for surgery. They are used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy and medication to maximize the benefits.

All spine injections are performed using fluoroscopic guidance (live X-ray) to ensure safety and precise medication delivery. These injections are performed in the radiology department of the hospital as an outpatient procedure. Fellowship-trained physicians perform all types of non-operative spine procedures.

Pain relief from injections

Injections allow the medication to be targeted directly at the anatomic location that is generating the pain. As a result, spine injections can often provide better pain relief than oral medications. An anti-inflammatory medication is injected to decrease inflammation of the irritated structures and improve pain.

Using injections to diagnose the cause of back pain

Very selective injections can be performed to help identify hip, back, nerve, disc or other joint pain generators. An anesthetic (numbing medication) is used to specifically target structures and numb them to determine the source of pain while providing relief.

If you are scheduled for an injection: what to expect

The injections are completed in the radiology department of the hospital. The procedure takes between 15-30 minutes to complete. You will be numbed with lidocaine and then, using X-ray guidance, a small needle will be used to inject the medication at the targeted location. You will have to wait 30 min after the procedure. Patients can experience temporary numbness and will need someone to drive them home. Please avoid anti-inflammatory medications for seven days prior to the procedure.