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.
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.
