EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTIONS: Minimally invasive image-guided injections in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky

Referrals Welcome:

Dr. Timothy Burns accepts referral from primary care physicians, orthopedic surgeons, athletic trainers, physical therapists, chiropractors, urgent care providers and school/club healthcare staff for evaluation and non-operative management sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.

Patients: Schedule an epidural steroid injection consult here.

Providers: Refer you patients for epidural steroid injections here.

Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI)

What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to reduce inflammation and pain caused by irritated spinal nerves. The injections delivers cysticercoid medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal nerves.

Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to treat:

Lumbar radiculopathy
Herniated or bulging discs
Spinal stenosis
Degenerative disc disease
Sciatica

Dr. Timothy Burns uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure accurate placement and to maximize both safety and effectiveness.

Conditions Treated With Epidural Steroid Injections

Epidural steroid injections may be recommended for patients experiencing:

Low back pain radiating into the leg (lumbar radiculopathy or sciatica)
Numbness, tingling or weakness caused by nerve compression
Persistent spinal pain not improving with physical therapy or medications

These injections are often used as part of a comprehensive non-surgical orthopedic plan of care.

Types of Epidural Steroid Injections Offered by Dr. Burns

Depending on the patient's condition, history, physical exam and imaging findings, Dr. Burns may recommend and perform:

Interlaminar epidural steroid injection
Transforaminal epidural steroid injection
Fluoroscopic guided sacroiliac joint injection
Fluoroscopic guided intra-articular hip injection

Each approach is selected based on anatomy, symptoms and the specific nerve root involved.

What to Expect During the Procedure

ESIs are outpatient procedures performed in the office setting
The procedure is typically completed in 15-30 minutes
Performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance
Patient are awake, with local anesthetic for comfort
Patients go home the same day
Normal activities usually resume within 24-48 hours

Benefits of Epidural Steroid Injections

Targeted relief at the source of inflammation
Reduce nerve irritation
Improve function and mobility
May delay or eliminate the need for surgery
Can facilitate participation in physical therapy

Epidural Steroid Injection Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What conditions are treated with x-ray guided injections?

Dr. Burns treats a variety of conditions with x-ray guided injections including:

Hip arthritis
Sacroiliac joint pain / dysfunction
Lumbar radiculopathy

How long does pain relief from an epidural steroid injection last?

Relief may last for several months, with four months or more considered successful. Some patients experience significant improvement after one injection, while others may require a series depending on their condition.

Are epidural steroid injection safe?

When performed by a trained physician using image guidance, ESI's are considered safe and effective. Dr. Burns uses fluoroscopy to ensure accurate placement and minimize risk.

How many epidural injections can I receive?

It is not recommended to receive more than 3 injections in a twelve month period. Dr. Burns tries to perform as few injections as possible to get the desired clinical response in an effort to be as minimally invasive as possible. The number of injections needed varies based on clinical response , the exact number for each patient is individualized.

Will the injection cure my back problem?

ESI's do not cure structural spine conditions, but, they can significantly reduce inflammation and pain, allowing the body to heal and improve function.

Do I need imaging before my ESI?

Yest. MRI is typically reviewed to confirm the diagnosis and guided the injection approach.

Is an epidural steroid injection painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort or pressure during the procedure. Interlaminar approach can be more uncomfortable than transforaminal . Local anesthetic is used to minimize discomfort.

Can epidural steroid injections help avoid surgery?

In many cases, yes. ESI's are often used as part of a comprehensive non-operative spine management program and may delay or eliminate the need for surgery.

When to Refer for Epidural Steroid Injections

Consider referral to Dr. Timothy Burns when a patient has:

Persistent back pain with radiating symptoms into the legs
MRI-confirmed disc herniation or spinal stenosis
Radicular pain not improving after 4-6 weeks of conservative care
Pain limiting function, sleep, ability to participate in therapy
Recurrent flares or nerve-related spine pain
A desire to delay or avoid spine surgery

Why Refer to Dr. Timothy Burns

Dr. Burns is board-certified physician specializing in sports medicine and interventional spine care
Dr. Burns has extensive experience with image-guided spine injections
Dr. Burns has a focus on non-surgical, evidence-based treatments
Collaborative approach with referring providers
Patient-centered care with clear follow-up plans

Referrals for epidural steroid injections are welcome

Patients can schedule a consultation directly, or, referring providers may contact the office to discuss appropriate treatment options.

Dr. Timothy Burns is frequently referred patients for epidural steroid injection, spine-related pain, radiculopathy, sciatica and non-operative management of lumbar spine conditions.