Epidural

What is an epidural?

An epidural is an interventional procedure designed to reduce pain and inflammation in the spine. It can help relieve symptoms from several spinal conditions, including:

• Intervertebral disc disease
• Nerve impingement (pinched nerves)
• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)

During the procedure, a needle is guided close to the epidural space of the spine using fluoroscopy (live X-ray). A small amount of contrast dye is used to confirm accurate placement before the medication is injected. Most often, a combination of local anesthetics and steroids is used to provide both immediate and lasting pain relief.

What to expect during the procedure

1. Check-in & preparation: A nurse will review your medical history and answer questions before the procedure.
2. Positioning: You will be placed comfortably on the treatment table.
3. Skin numbing: The injection site is cleaned, and a small amount of local anesthetic is used to numb the skin.
4. Guided injection: Using fluoroscopy, the doctor carefully places the needle and confirms proper placement with contrast dye.
5. Medication delivery: A mixture of numbing and steroid medication is injected into the epidural space.

The procedure usually takes only a few minutes and may involve more than one injection, depending on your condition.

How do epidural injections relieve pain?

Spine pain and radiculopathy (nerve-related pain such as sciatica) are often caused by inflammation of spinal structures. The steroid and anesthetic medications used in an epidural:

• Reduce inflammation around irritated nerves
• Provide rapid and effective pain relief
• Help improve mobility and function

Steroid medications have a long record of safety and effectiveness when used for pain management.

When will I feel pain relief?

Most patients experience pain relief within 48–72 hours of the injection. The duration of relief varies and depends on factors such as:

• Age and overall health
• The underlying spinal condition
• Daily activities and occupational demands
• Participation in physical therapy and rehabilitation

Some patients may experience relief lasting weeks to months, and repeat injections may be recommended.

Recovery after an epidural

Recovery is generally quick. You may experience mild soreness at the injection site for up to 24 hours. Most patients resume normal light activity the same day, but strenuous activity should be avoided until the next day.

If symptoms persist or worsen, follow the discharge instructions provided or contact Iowa Ortho for further guidance.

Why choose Iowa Ortho for epidural injections?

Patients throughout Des Moines and Central Iowa trust Iowa Ortho because we provide:

• Expert image-guided precision: Fluoroscopy ensures safe and accurate placement of medication.
• Experienced spine care team: Board-certified providers specialize in diagnosing and treating spinal pain.
• Comprehensive care approach: Epidurals are combined with physical therapy and other treatments for long-term relief.
• Patient-focused experience: Our team ensures comfort, safety, and clear communication at every step.

Schedule an epidural injection at Iowa Ortho

If you are experiencing back pain, sciatica, or spinal nerve irritation, an epidural steroid injection at Iowa Ortho may provide lasting relief.

Call 515-247-8400 or request an appointment online today to learn more.