A lumbar transforaminal epidural injection, also called a nerve root injection, places medication close to an irritated nerve in the lower back. It may be offered for selected patients with sciatica or other nerve-related leg pain.
What is injected?
Local anaesthetic and steroid. The anaesthetic can briefly block pain signals. The steroid aims to reduce inflammation. Benefit varies and may take time to become clear; an injection does not remove a disc prolapse.
What happens?
The injection is performed with X-ray guidance. Professor Bateman places a fine needle near the target nerve, checks its position and injects the medication. Sedation may be available if preferred. You are monitored for a short time before going home.
What are the alternatives and risks?
Alternatives include continued non-surgical care or, for selected patients, surgery. The injection can cause temporary soreness or a flare of symptoms. Less common but serious risks include infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and nerve injury.
Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, diabetes, allergies or possible pregnancy. Do not stop or restart prescribed medicines without an individual plan. Arrange for someone to take you home afterwards and follow the discharge advice about driving.
Detailed patient leaflet
Read Professor Bateman’s information leaflet before your procedure and bring any questions to your consultation.
Open the PDF leaflet →