Advanced Pain Medical Group offers cervical epidural steroid injections (CESI) at our eight locations in Los Angeles, Kern, and Ventura counties. Neck pain can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities. CESI is a minimally invasive neck pain treatment option that can provide relief for a variety of conditions.
How CESI Works
The injections reduce swelling and inflammation in the cervical spine. During each procedure, your doctor will inject a combination of steroids and local anesthetic into the epidural space around the nerve roots. The steroid reduces inflammation, while the anesthetic provides immediate relief.
Transforaminal Vs. Interlaminar Injections
There are two main cervical epidural steroid injection types: interlaminar and transforaminal. Interlaminar injections are given in the midline of the spine and spread to all the nerve roots. Transforaminal injections are administered directly into the nerve root’s area.
Can CESI Help My Neck Pain?
Cervical epidural steroid injections treat various inflammatory conditions in the neck.
- Herniated Discs
- Spinal Stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Cervical Radiculopathy
- Whiplash Injury
- Postherpetic Neuralgia (Shingles-Related Nerve Pain)
- Cervical Spondylosis
- Numbness/Tingling In The Upper Extremities
Fast & Easy Outpatient Treatment
CESI treatments are done on an outpatient basis. Your provider will ask you to lie on your stomach. They will numb the injection site with a local anesthetic, then position the needle into the epidural space using a fluoroscope. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and you can go home the same day.
No Sedation Needed
Heavy sedation is not necessary for CESI procedures. However, some clinics may offer a mild sedative to help you relax.
Does CESI Provide Instant Pain Relief?
Some patients experience very fast pain relief. Others may need a few days to notice an improvement. The steroid can take up to two weeks to reach its full effect.
Recovery time is minimal—you may experience mild soreness at the injection site, but this should go away within a day or two. Avoiding strenuous activities for a few days after the injection would be best.
How Long Do Neck Injections Last?
The effects of CESI can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The injection is not a permanent solution, but it can provide significant temporary pain relief and allow you to resume your daily activities.
Benefits Of CESI
- Relieves Neck Pain & Related Symptoms
- Minimally Invasive
- Fast Recovery
- Can Improve Your Quality Of Life
CESI Drawbacks:
- Not A Permanent Solution
- Side Effects May Include Headache, Infection, & Nerve Damage
- Not Effective For All Patients
Don’t Let Pain Keep You Down
Getting a cervical epidural steroid injection is a safe and effective way to treat chronic neck pain and related symptoms. Call Advanced Pain Medical Group today if you live in the Kern, Ventura, or Los Angeles counties and want more information. Our experienced doctors are ready to provide you with the care and support you need to manage your pain and get your life back.