What is a Back Pain Injection?
A back pain injection can help when persistent pain remains despite physiotherapy and medication. Imaging or examination often points to a specific source. The injection chosen depends on the cause, which is why an accurate diagnosis is crucial. Dr. Purnajyoti Banerjee reviews your imaging in London to select the most suitable injection, from an epidural to a medial branch block injection or Radiofrequency ablation or nerve root block.
When Is a Back Pain Injection Recommended? A Consultant Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon's Guide
Injections are recommended when back pain does not improve with non-invasive treatments. Factors influencing the decision include the patient’s medical history, severity of pain, and response to other treatments. The injections can target specific issues like inflammation or nerve compression. According to the NHS, injections can be effective in managing conditions like sciatica and spinal stenosis.
Conditions a Back Pain Injection Treats in London
- Sciatica
- Facet joint arthritis
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Disc herniation
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Chronic lower-back pain
- Nerve root irritation
What Happens During Your Back Pain Injection?
BEFORE
Eat and drink normally unless sedation is planned. Arrive 30 minutes early for consent. The team confirms the injection type.
DURING
Skin is numbed. Under X-ray or ultrasound guidance, medication is delivered to the identified source of pain. Most feel pressure, not pain.
AFTER
Rest briefly and go home the same day with a companion. Relief onset depends on the injection used.
Benefits
- Treatment matched to the true cause of pain
- Non-surgical and same-day
- Often diagnostic as well as therapeutic
- Can be repeated when clinically appropriate
Considerations
- Relief varies and is not guaranteed
- The right injection depends on an accurate diagnosis
- Temporary soreness
- Small risk of infection