Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection  

A Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection is a procedure to place a steroid medication (an anti-inflammatory medication) into the area of your back which is causing your pain.

What to expect after this procedure:

• Temporary relief of pain until the local anesthetic wears off.
• Some soreness at the injection site for 2-3 days.
• Slow onset (3-5 days) for the steroid to start working.
• 10-14 day duration of action for the steroid.

Comfort measures:

• Use warm, moist heat or ice packs for soreness at the injection sites.
• Take over-the-counter medications for soreness.
• Use medication prescribed by your physician.

Activity:

• You may resume previous level of activity today as tolerated.

Diet:

• You may resume your normal diet.
• The steroid may cause temporary weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, irregular menstrual cycle, hot flashes, or facial flushing. These symptoms will subside as the steroid tapers off.
• If you are diabetic, you may see a temporary rise in your blood sugar. Notify your physician if the levels are above the limit set by your physician.

Notify your physician if you experience:

• Sign of infection such as fever above 100 degrees, chills, redness, swelling or drainage at the site of the injection.
• Any new numbness or weakness in your legs.
• If you do not already have a follow-up appointment and your pain is not improved after 7-10 days, call to schedule a return appointment with your physician at the Pain Center.

Additional Instruction

Please feel free to contact your physician by calling us Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. or Friday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at (563) 421-3555 if you have any questions regarding your care. Please leave a phone mail message after hours or on weekends.

Important Note: We are available for medication refill phone calls only during normal business hours Monday - Friday. Should you require emergency care, call your referring physician or come to the Genesis Emergency Room.