Everything You Need to Know About Epidural Steroid Injections for Sciatica

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Written by Dr. Shrutika Bhagat
Aug 26, 2026
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Everything You Need to Know About Epidural Steroid Injections for Sciatica
Learn how image-guided epidural steroid injections provide rapid, targeted relief for pinched nerves, herniated discs, and debilitating sciatic leg pain.

What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

An Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) is an advanced, non-surgical interventional treatment used to alleviate inflammation and severe nerve pain radiating down the leg (sciatica) caused by spinal disc bulges or stenosis.

How Does It Work?

Under precise real-time fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance), an anti-inflammatory medication combined with a local anesthetic is delivered directly into the epidural space surrounding the inflamed nerve root.

Who Benefits from ESI?

  • Patients suffering from lumbar disc herniation causing sciatica.
  • Individuals with spinal stenosis experiencing pain while walking.
  • Those looking to avoid open spinal surgery or reduce pain to engage in physiotherapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some patients experience immediate relief from the local anesthetic, while the full anti-inflammatory steroid effect typically peaks within 2 to 5 days.
Relief can last from several months to years, allowing patients to complete rehabilitative physical therapy and regain complete mobility.
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Dr. Shrutika Bhagat

Interventional Pain Physician & Spine Endoscopy Specialist dedicated to precision image-guided pain relief and stitchless keyhole spine care in Patna, Bihar.

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