Center for Pain Management

Lumbosacral Nerve Block and Steroid Injection

There are two main reasons to perform a lumbosacral nerve block and steroid injection:

1. To determine whether a particular nerve is causing a patient’s back and/or leg pain.

2. To provide temporary pain relief.

While the procedure is usually successful at achieving these goals, there is no guarantee that the cause of pain will be identified or that pain will decrease.

What to Expect

The procedure takes about 30 minutes. The radiologist will use fluoroscopy to pass a needle next to the nerve that is believed to be causing pain. Two different medications will be injected. The first, a short-acting anesthetic agent, is injected for diagnostic information. Pain relief from this medication will wear off in about 4 – 5 hours. The second medication—an anti-inflammatory steroid—will provide longer-term pain relief and will begin working after 1 – 2 days.

During the injection you may feel pressure or tingling. These sensations last several seconds and can provide important diagnostic information. After the procedure, the short-acting anesthetic can make your legs feel numb or weak for a few hours, so you should minimize activity for 2 – 3 hours. You can leave immediately after your procedure is performed if you have someone to assist you home.

Schedule

Schedule a Lumbosacral Nerve Block and Steroid Injection.

Click here to download questionnaire with additional information