About

A transforaminal epidural steroid injection is administered by a doctor who delivers an injection into the neural foramen that contains a nerve root causing pain. This procedure can help decrease pain.

This procedure also helps ensure focus on the correct nerves. Another advantage is that the doctor can inject lidocaine which immediately relieves the patient's pain. Spine injections should only be done by doctors with special training in fluoroscopically (x-ray) guided spinal procedures. Before the ESI procedure, the doctor will get detailed pictures of the spine using an MRI or CT scan, which will help determine the best approach.

How It Helps

A transforaminal epidural steroid injection can be helpful in treating pain in your lower back, legs, and feet caused by sciatica, herniated discs, or another back problem.