Transforaminal epidural steroid injection.
A minimally invasive treatment for chronic back and nerve pain. These injections deliver anti-inflammatory steroid directly to the epidural space around an irritated nerve root — reducing inflammation, easing pain, and improving mobility without surgery.
What to expect
Calming the inflammation around the nerve.
The epidural space sits just outside the membrane that protects your spinal cord and nerve roots. When it becomes inflamed, the result is pain — and that's exactly where this injection goes.
Medicine right where it hurts
Conditions like a herniated disc or a bone spur can press on and inflame a nerve root, causing pain that may radiate into an arm or a leg. This injection places steroid right at that inflamed spot to settle it down and relieve the pressure on the nerve.
- Targets the inflamed nerve root directly for focused relief
- Reduces the pressure that causes radiating arm or leg pain
- A non-surgical way to manage chronic spinal pain
Image-guided epidural delivery
Under fluoroscopy, a thin needle is guided to the nerve root; contrast confirms placement before a steroid-and-anesthetic mixture is injected into the epidural space. The anesthetic gives immediate relief while the steroid reduces inflammation over the following weeks.
- Transforaminal targets nerve roots more directly than interlaminar
- Typically recommended 3-6 times per year as needed
- Alternative treatments are considered if relief is inadequate
Conditions these
injections help.
Transforaminal epidural steroid injections address the inflammation and nerve compression at the root of many chronic spinal conditions.
Lower back pain & sciatica
Pain in the lower back or radiating down the leg from an irritated or compressed nerve root.
Stenosis & herniated discs
Spinal stenosis, foraminal stenosis, herniated discs, and pinched nerves causing spinal compression.
Structural spine conditions
Spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, and bone spurs contributing to nerve pain.
Radiating nerve pain
Spinal nerve damage and pain that radiates into the arms or legs.
What happens on the day.
Prepare
Fast for a few hours and adjust certain medications as advised. Sedation and local anesthesia are available for comfort.
The injection
You lie on your stomach. Using live X-ray, the physician guides the needle to the nerve root, confirms with contrast, and injects.
Recover
You're monitored briefly. Avoid driving and heavy activity that day; the anesthetic may help right away.
Full effect
The steroid's full anti-inflammatory effect typically develops over the next one to two weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Is the procedure painful?
It's generally well-tolerated. Local anesthesia numbs the area to minimize discomfort. Some patients feel a brief pressure or mild pain when the needle is inserted.
How long does the pain relief last?
It varies, typically lasting from several weeks to several months, depending on your condition and response to the steroid.
What's the difference between transforaminal and interlaminar injections?
Transforaminal injections target the nerve roots more directly for focused relief. Interlaminar injections deliver medication into the epidural space more generally, which can help broader pain areas.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
It's recommended to have someone drive you home. Sedation and the effects of the injection can impair your ability to drive safely.
Are there activity restrictions afterward?
Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 24 hours. Normal activities can usually resume gradually based on comfort and your doctor's guidance.
What if my pain worsens or I have concerning symptoms?
If you experience worsening pain, fever, signs of infection, or other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately for advice and follow-up care.
Ready to ease the nerve pain?
Book with a board-certified pain physician at a location near you. We'll help you find the safest, most effective path to relief.