Women tend to react very differently to labor pains. Some find them tolerable, while others can’t help but double over in pain. The latter often end up using epidural pain relief to fully enjoy their pregnancy period.
However, they aren’t the only ones. Epidural injections have become a common pain management method and are acceptable to use under several circumstances.
But how does the epidural injection work? What are its side effects?
Keep reading to learn more.
What is Epidural Injection?
An epidural injection is a common medical procedure used to help reduce and often eliminate pain in the lower back and lower body. The medicine seeps into the nerves that connect to the affected areas, calming them and blocking the pain signals. This can help with chronic and localized lower back neck, or leg pain, as well as provide relief to patients who suffer from arthritis and disk herniation.
The effects of this injection can last from a few days to a few weeks. This is a minimally-invasive procedure that can be beneficial for many people with chronic and localized pain.
Injection Technique and Efficacy
An epidural injection guide works by delivering local anesthetic medications near the coverings of spinal nerves to provide relief from chronic or acute pain. For the epidural injection, the patient is placed on their stomach with their spine straight, and special x-ray guidance is used.
The local anesthetic medications are injected into the epidural space between the dura mater and the vertebral body, blocking the pain signals that cause pain in the back or neck. Once the injection has been administered, the patient typically begins to experience relief in minutes, and the benefits can last for several hours.
Its Benefits and Risks
While it may seem scary or uncomfortable, epidural injections offer a range of potential benefits. The main benefit of the epidural medical injection is the long-term relief of pain that it can provide. It can also reduce swelling and help to restore mobility and range of motion.
But, one must also be aware of the potential risks. These include infection, fluid buildup, temporary neurological problems, and even permanent paralysis. It is important to thoroughly discuss the benefits and risks with a knowledgeable healthcare specialist to decide if this treatment is right for you.
Who Performs an Epidural?
The epidural injection procedure is typically performed by an anesthesiologist, pain specialist, or physiatrist. An anesthesiologist or doctor specializing in anesthesia will first numb the area using a local anesthetic. After the area is properly numbed, they will insert the needle and administer the injection.
An Overview of the Epidural Injection Procedure
Overall, epidural injection has been used for centuries to reduce pain and discomfort. It is important to understand how it works before deciding if it is a good choice for you. If you have any more questions about epidural injections, consider speaking with your doctor to explore if this form of treatment is right for you.
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