The cervical nerves are found in the cervical spine (neck) and can travel to the shoulders, arms, wrists, and many other upper body regions. If irritated, patients may feel pain, numbness, and even weakness in these areas. This is typically the case if the patients have a herniated disc in the neck, or spinal stenosis narrowing the spine, but several other conditions can irritate the nerves as well. A cervical epidural steroid injection can help patients by temporarily relieving the pressure on the nerves to alleviate pain. In some cases, it can also be used as a diagnostic tool to find out where the pain is coming from.
The physician begins by going over the procedure and answering any questions the patient may have. When the patient is ready, he or she is positioned face down with the neck area exposed. The Tulsa Pain physicians recommend wearing loose clothing so the base of the skull is easily accessible. The area is then thoroughly cleansed with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection. Next, the physician administers a local anesthetic to numb a small area around the neck and minimize discomfort to the patient. The physician then inserts a needle into the epidural space in the cervical spine. Some physicians may use a fluoroscope to confirm the position of the needle. If this is the case, a contrast dye will be injected down the needle and into the spine. A special X-ray tool called a fluoroscope can detect the dye, and the physician will adjust the needle accordingly. Then, without removing the needle, a new solution composed of anesthetic and an anti-inflammatory medication is injected into the epidural space near the nerve roots. The inflamed nerves absorb this medication so that swelling can decrease and relieve pressure put onto them. Finally, a small bandage is applied over the injection site, and the patient will be given post-procedural instructions.
Following the procedure, patients will be briefly monitored. Patients can return home that day, but physicians may recommend bringing a caregiver to drive patients home. The risk of infection or allergic reaction is low after a cervical epidural steroid injection, but patients should still look out for symptoms including itching, swelling, or increased pain. The injection should alleviate pain symptoms within a few days, but if patients do not feel a decent percentage of pain relief, a Tulsa Pain physician may recommend coming in for repeat injections every couple of weeks in order to feel the full effects of the medication. If the patient still does not feel better, the cervical nerves may not be the true source of the pain and other options may be explored.
