Do spinal injections work?

There are two types of spinal injections which we use: the first is to treat back pain, and the second is to diagnose and treat sciatic pain.

Back pain spinal injections

Often, back pain is linked to the facet joints, which are the small joints between each vertebra that allow the spine to bend, rotate, and move, while also providing stability. When these degenerate or there is mechanical wear and tear, they can cause pain. In the long term, this type of pain is typically treated through exercise, building core strength, physical therapy, as well as yoga and Pilates.

However, sometimes the pain can be so severe that patients cannot tolerate these treatments. In these circumstances, facet joint injections can offer pain relief, providing a window of opportunity for patients to complete their treatments. In some cases, the back pain can return rapidly and repeatedly, but the injections continue to provide relief. In these cases, patients can be considered for facet joint denervation. This is a slightly more invasive technique that targets the same area, but with a longer-lasting effect.

Spine injections for sciatica

Injections used to diagnose or treat sciatica are often referred to as perineural injections, nerve root injections, or transforaminal epidural injections. These are given to patients with specific symptoms – pain down one leg linked to irritation of one nerve root, commonly known as sciatic pain (because it is the sciatic nerve which is being compressed).

These injections are commonly used for diagnostic purposes if there is any doubt from the MRI scan about which nerve root is responsible for the pain, by injecting the area around the suspected nerve. These injections are also helpful in alleviating severe pain and allowing the patient to complete other treatments, such as physiotherapy, which may work in the long term to treat the sciatic pain. Still, currently the patient is unable to do so due to the pain. Injections are a valuable tool for avoiding open surgery. Still, it is always worth noting that not everyone responds to them, so it is a good idea to discuss all options with your consultant before making a final decision.

Spinal epidural injections can, on occasion, be used when multiple nerve roots are involved in the source of the pain. Again, it is essential to discuss this with your consultant.

This article is intended to inform and give insight, but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. Always consult a doctor for any questions regarding a medical condition.