Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection

At Core Alliance, we offer targeted, non-surgical solutions like cervical epidural steroid injections to help reduce neck pain and restore your quality of life.

Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections Precise Relief

Persistent neck pain, radiating arm discomfort, or inflammation caused by spinal conditions can severely impact your daily life. At Core Alliance, we provide advanced non-surgical treatments such as cervical epidural steroid injections to help reduce nerve inflammation and promote long-term pain relief. Our goal is to help you regain comfort and mobility without surgery. Contact our team today if you’d like to learn more or schedule a consultation with Dr. Rovner.

What Is a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?

A cervical epidural steroid injection (CESI) is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding your cervical spine. This space is located around the spinal cord and nerve roots in your neck. The goal of this injection is to reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby relieving pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. The procedure is typically performed using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precision and safety. Many patients experience significant relief after just one injection, though a series of injections may be recommended depending on the severity and persistence of symptoms.

Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Benefits

Cervical epidural steroid injections offer an effective and non-surgical approach to managing chronic neck and radiating arm pain.

Reduces inflammation in the cervical spine: By targeting the source of inflammation, the injection can relieve pressure on the nerves and reduce pain.
Provides rapid and effective pain relief: Many patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms within a few days of the procedure.
Improves neck mobility and daily function: As pain diminishes, you may notice enhanced movement and comfort during routine activities.
Delays or eliminates the need for surgery: For many individuals, injections can successfully manage symptoms without requiring more invasive procedures.
Complements other treatment approaches: Cervical epidural injections work well alongside physical therapy and other conservative methods to enhance your recovery.
Minimally invasive with low risk: The procedure is quick, performed on an outpatient basis, and involves minimal downtime.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?

This procedure is often recommended for individuals experiencing persistent neck pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates into the shoulders and arms. Candidates may have spinal conditions like herniated cervical discs, foraminal stenosis, or other degenerative changes in the spine that cause nerve inflammation or compression. CESI is typically considered after conservative treatments like physical therapy or oral medications have failed to provide sufficient relief. It may also be used diagnostically to help identify the source of nerve-related pain.

Your Consultation

During your consultation, Dr. Rovner will take time to understand your symptoms, evaluate imaging studies, and determine if a cervical epidural steroid injection is appropriate for your condition. This appointment also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and understand what to expect from the procedure.

For your convenience, Core Alliance offers both in-person and virtual consultations.

“Incredibly helpful and flexible support. Doctor Rovner was very accommodating to my changing schedule and gave great advice to aid my recovery. Highly recommend!”

– Ross Crump

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What to Expect During Your Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Procedure

The injection is typically performed in an outpatient setting and takes less than 30 minutes. You'll lie on your stomach or side while the area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopic imaging, the physician carefully guides a thin needle into the epidural space of your cervical spine. Once properly positioned, a steroid solution is injected to target the inflamed nerve roots.

Patients usually remain awake throughout the procedure and may feel slight pressure or mild discomfort during the injection. Afterward, you will be monitored for a short time before being released to go home. It's recommended that someone else drive you home following the procedure.

What Is the Recovery Like After a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?

Most patients can return to normal, non-strenuous activities the following day. Mild soreness at the injection site is common but typically resolves within a few days. Some individuals feel immediate relief, while others may experience improvement gradually over the course of several days.

Your physician may advise you to limit heavy lifting and vigorous activity for a short period following the injection. The relief can last weeks to months, and additional injections may be considered if symptoms return.

How Much Does a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Cost?

The cost of a CESI can vary depending on your insurance coverage and the specifics of your treatment plan. Many insurance providers cover the procedure when deemed medically necessary. Our team will work with you to clarify any financial questions and provide an estimate before treatment.

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Alternatives to Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections

While CESI is highly effective for many patients, there are alternative non-surgical treatments to consider. These may include physical therapy, chiropractic care, oral medications, and other types of spinal injections.

In cases where conservative care fails, surgical intervention may be explored. At Core Alliance, we carefully evaluate your condition and recommend the treatment path most appropriate for your needs.

Why Choose Core Alliance?

At Core Alliance, your care is guided by board-certified spine surgeon Dr. Aron Rovner, who brings decades of experience in both surgical and non-surgical spine solutions. Our practice emphasizes conservative, patient-centered care tailored to your specific diagnosis and goals. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward targeted relief.

Frequently Asked Questions Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection

How long do the effects of a cervical epidural steroid injection last?

The effects can last anywhere from several weeks to a few months, depending on the individual and underlying condition.

How often can I receive cervical epidural steroid injections?

In most cases, a series of up to three injections spaced several weeks apart may be recommended over a 12-month period.

Are there risks or side effects associated with this procedure?

While generally safe, possible risks include headache, infection, temporary nerve irritation, or allergic reaction to the medication.

Can I return to work after the injection?

Most patients are able to resume light activities the next day, but you should avoid strenuous tasks for a short time.

Is this injection painful?

You may feel mild pressure during the injection, but local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.