Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections in Louisiana
A caudal epidural steroid injection relieves lower back and radiating leg pain by reducing swelling and inflammation caused by spinal conditions. The medication is delivered through a natural opening near the tailbone. LA Pain Doctor performs caudal epidural injections for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentHow a Caudal Epidural Injection Is Different
Epidural steroid injections place anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space around the spinal nerves. In a caudal approach, the needle enters through the sacral hiatus, a small natural opening at the base of the spine just above the tailbone. This allows the medication to spread upward and bathe several lower nerve roots at once.
The caudal approach is especially helpful for patients who have had previous lower back surgery, have scar tissue, or have pain affecting multiple levels of the lower spine. It is one of several options alongside the interlaminar lumbar epidural and transforaminal epidural approaches.
Conditions It Can Help
- Lumbar radiculopathy (sciatica)
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Persistent pain after lower back surgery
What to Expect
You will lie face down while your provider numbs the skin above the tailbone. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a needle is placed into the caudal epidural space, and contrast dye confirms the medication will flow to the right area. A mixture of steroid and anesthetic is then injected. The procedure usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
Many patients notice some relief soon after from the anesthetic, with the steroid taking effect over two to seven days. Relief can last weeks to months, and the injection can be repeated if needed. Pairing injections with physical therapy often extends results.
Related Treatments
If your pain comes from the joints rather than the nerves, facet joint injections or sacroiliac joint injections may be recommended. For chronic leg pain after surgery that does not respond to injections, a spinal cord stimulator trial may help. Explore our lower back pain treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
What is a caudal epidural steroid injection?
It is an injection of anti-inflammatory medication into the epidural space through a small opening near the tailbone to relieve lower back and leg pain.
Why choose a caudal approach?
The caudal approach is helpful for patients with prior back surgery, scar tissue, or pain involving several lower spine levels.
How long does relief last?
Relief commonly lasts several weeks to months, and results vary from patient to patient.
Is the injection painful?
The skin is numbed first, and most patients feel only pressure during the procedure.
When will I feel better?
The anesthetic may provide early relief, and the steroid typically starts working within two to seven days.
Can I go back to work after the injection?
Most patients return to normal activities the next day.
Where can I get a caudal epidural injection?
LA Pain Doctor offers caudal epidural steroid injections at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Relieve Lower Back and Leg Pain
Find relief from radiating back pain. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.