Herniated Disc: Understanding Back Pain Beyond Muscle Strain
A herniated disc is a condition when one of the rubbery cushions also known as the discs that are placed in between the bones that make up your spinal cord
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Back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting adults worldwide. It may arise from several causes, including spinal disc problems, nerve compression, degenerative changes, or inflammation around the spine. When symptoms persist despite conservative care, doctors may consider additional treatment options to help reduce inflammation and improve function.
An approach that may be recommended in selected cases is epidural steroid injection (ESI). This procedure is commonly used in modern spine care to help relieve nerve irritation associated with certain spinal conditions.
At Vejthani International Hospital, spine specialists evaluate each patient individually to determine whether this procedure may be an appropriate component of a broader treatment plan.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain can develop from a variety of structural or inflammatory conditions affecting the spine, surrounding muscles, ligaments, or nerves.
Common underlying causes include:
- Herniated or bulging intervertebral discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Nerve root compression or irritation
Symptoms may vary from localized discomfort to radiating pain that travels along the nerve pathway, sometimes affecting the buttocks, legs, or feet.
When nerve irritation occurs, patients may also experience:
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Weakness in the affected limb
- Pain that worsens when standing, walking, or sitting for prolonged periods
Because these symptoms may overlap with other conditions, a proper medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive medical procedure that delivers anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space, the area surrounding the spinal nerves.
The injected medication typically includes:
- A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation
- A local anesthetic to help relieve nerve irritation
The primary goal of this procedure is to reduce inflammation around the affected nerve root, which may help decrease pain and improve mobility in certain patients.
When Might an Epidural Steroid Injection Be Considered?
An epidural steroid injection may be considered when back pain is associated with nerve inflammation or compression and when symptoms persist despite initial conservative treatments.
The doctor may evaluate this option in the following conditions:
- Herniated lumbar disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Sciatica or radicular pain
- Degenerative spinal conditions affecting nerve roots
At Vejthani International Hospital, treatment decisions are made after a comprehensive assessment that may include physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
According to Dr. Pattara Kosanunt, Spine Specialist at Vejthani International Hospital, epidural steroid injections are used as part of a multidisciplinary approach to spine treatment. With extensive experience in treating varying levels of complexity in spinal conditions, allowing accurate diagnosis and make precise treatment decisions.
The procedure requires high precision to target the affected spinal nerves and reduce inflammation. In some cases, diagnostic techniques such as selective nerve root blocks are used to confirm the exact source of pain.
Dr. Pattara also emphasizes that treatment outcomes may vary depending on the underlying condition, severity, and overall health of the patient, reflecting a personalized and experience-based approach to care.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Epidural steroid injections are usually performed in a controlled clinical environment by a trained spine specialist.
The procedure generally involves:
- Positioning the patient comfortably, often lying face down or on the side
- Cleaning the skin and applying local anesthesia
- Using imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, to accurately guide the needle
- Injecting medication into the epidural space near the affected nerve
Epidural steroid injection typically takes a short time, and most patients are able to return home the same day after observation.
Potential Benefits and Considerations
Epidural steroid injections may offer potential benefits for selected patients experiencing nerve-related symptoms.
Possible benefits include:
- Reduction of nerve inflammation
- Temporary pain relief
- Improved ability to participate in physical therapy
- Potential delay or avoidance of surgical intervention in certain cases
However, outcomes can vary. Some patients may experience symptom relief, while others may have limited improvement.
As with any medical procedure, there are also potential risks that should be discussed with a qualified physician.
Medical Evaluation
- Underlying spinal condition
- Severity of symptoms
- Imaging findings
- Overall health and medical history
At Vejthani International Hospital, spine specialists apply evidence-based practices and international medical standards when evaluating treatment options for patients with spinal disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What conditions can cause back pain related to nerve irritation?
Nerve-related spinal pain may result from herniated discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative changes in the spine, or inflammation of the nerve roots.
What is the purpose of an epidural steroid injection?
The procedure is intended to deliver anti-inflammatory medication near irritated spinal nerves, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms in selected patients.
Is an epidural steroid injection considered surgery?
No. It is generally considered a minimally invasive procedure performed using imaging guidance and local anesthesia.
How long does the procedure usually take?
The injection procedure itself is typically short, although total clinic time may be longer due to preparation and post-procedure observation.
Does every patient with back pain need this treatment?
No. Treatment decisions depend on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and the physician’s evaluation. Many cases may be managed with other approaches.
Can epidural steroid injections replace surgery?
In some cases, symptom improvement may reduce the need for surgery. However, this varies widely depending on the specific spinal condition.
For more information, contact
Spine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call 02-7340000 or Ext. 5500
English Hotline: (+66)8-522 38888
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