Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection: Relief for Neck and Arm Pain

A Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection (CESI) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and arms. If you are suffering from a pinched nerve or inflammation in the cervical spine, this treatment can provide significant, long-term relief without the need for immediate surgery.

Common Conditions Treated

This injection is highly effective for patients suffering from:

• Herniated Discs: When spinal discs bulge or leak, irritating nearby nerves.

• Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerves.

• Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve root compression that causes “shooting” pain down the arm.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear of the spinal structures.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Preparation and Comfort

The procedure is performed with the patient lying face down. To ensure your comfort, intravenous (IV) sedation is often available. Before the injection begins, the physician will use a local anesthetic to numb the skin and deep tissue of the neck.

2. Precision Guidance (Fluoroscopy)

To ensure maximum safety and accuracy, our physicians use live X-ray guidance, known as fluoroscopy. This allows the doctor to visualize the cervical spine in real-time and guide the needle precisely into the epidural space—the area surrounding the inflamed spinal nerves.

3. Delivering the Medication

Once the needle is positioned correctly, a powerful combination of an anesthetic (for immediate relief) and a cortisone steroid (for long-term healing) is injected. The steroid acts as a potent anti-inflammatory, reducing nerve swelling and “flushing out” inflammatory proteins to alleviate pressure.

Recovery and Results

After the procedure, a small bandage is applied, and you will be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. Most patients can return home the same day with specific post-treatment instructions.

How many injections will I need? While some patients experience total relief after a single session, others may require a series of two or three injections, typically spaced two weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.

Note: Consult with a pain management specialist to determine if a cervical epidural is the right solution for your specific symptoms.