What is a Cervical Epidural Injection?
A cervical epidural injection (CESI) is similar to what is administered to women in labor. Also referred to as a cervical epidural steroid injection, the procedure is safe and effective in treating neck and back pain. Anti-inflammatory medicine is injected into the epidural space near the spine — nothing goes on or into your spine. You will experience reduced swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Often Used to Treat
CESIs are often used to treat:
- Spinal stenosis
- Headaches
- Chronic neck pain
- Cervical radiculopathy — shooting pain from the neck into the arms, shoulders, or fingers, often described as pins and needles. This often occurs due to a disc herniation, causing a nerve to be compressed and irritated.
What Are the Benefits?
CESIs have been used since 1986 and are considered the main treatment for cervical radiculopathy and chronic neck pain. Most importantly, CESIs are minimally invasive, allowing you to return to normal life as soon as possible.
How Often Should This Procedure Be Done?
You can receive up to three injections in a six-month period, with two or three weeks between each. You may find that you experience relief after one or two injections and do not need the standard group of three.
When Will I Feel Better?
Many see results immediately after the second injection, while effects can start within two to three days.
Is a Cervical Epidural Injection Right for Me?
If your chronic neck pain has continued for more than four weeks and has not been helped by other conservative therapies, you may consider this treatment.
Risk Factors
Complications may include bleeding, headache, infection, allergic reaction to medication, and any reaction caused by the medications themselves. Your physician will use fluoroscopy to ensure proper needle placement, reducing risk of complications.
Evidence of Performance
In 1993, a study was published on CESIs' effectiveness in treating neck and arm pain long-term, with 68% of patients reporting positively. A 1994 study found 71% of patients experiencing a 75% pain reduction. In 2007, studies showed that multiple injections are much more effective than single injections.