A cervical epidural steroid injection addresses neck and arm pain, often stemming from inflamed spinal nerves. This procedure delivers anti-inflammatory medication, typically a corticosteroid, into the epidural space around the spinal cord in the neck. The aim is to reduce swelling and pressure on affected nerves, alleviating symptoms like pain, numbness, or tingling radiating into the shoulders or arms. This article outlines what to expect after a cervical epidural injection.
Immediately After the Procedure
Immediately after your cervical epidural injection, you will be monitored briefly in a recovery area. This ensures no immediate adverse reactions and allows initial medication effects to be assessed. Many injections include a local anesthetic with the steroid, which can cause temporary numbness or a heavy sensation in your neck, shoulders, or arm.
This numbness or weakness is a temporary effect of the local anesthetic, blocking nerve signals. It typically subsides within a few hours as the anesthetic wears off. As the numbing effect fades, you might experience a temporary increase in your original pain. This occurs because the steroid medication, which provides longer-term relief, usually takes time to become effective.
Common Experiences in the Days Following
In the days following your cervical epidural, some soreness or mild bruising at the neck injection site is common. This localized discomfort is a normal reaction to needle insertion. Some individuals may also develop a mild headache if the dura, the membrane surrounding the spinal cord, was temporarily affected.
Another temporary side effect is facial flushing or a feeling of warmth in the face and chest. This “steroid flare” is a known reaction to the corticosteroid and typically resolves within a day or two. The most significant change is the gradual onset of pain relief. While some report immediate improvement, the full therapeutic effects of the steroid usually begin within 2 to 7 days. Pain relief is often progressive, improving over the first week as the steroid’s anti-inflammatory properties take hold.
Recovery and Activity Recommendations
Following specific guidelines optimizes recovery after a cervical epidural. Rest and take it easy for the first 24 hours after the procedure. During this initial period, avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or movements that excessively strain your neck.
You can shower after 24 hours, but avoid submerging the injection site in baths, hot tubs, or pools for at least 24 hours to reduce infection risk. For soreness at the injection site, applying an ice pack for 10 to 20 minutes can help reduce discomfort and swelling. Your doctor may also advise continuing or resuming physical therapy, as the injection is often part of a broader rehabilitation plan to strengthen supporting muscles and improve mobility.
When to Contact Your Doctor
While cervical epidural injections are generally safe, recognize symptoms warranting medical attention. Contact your doctor if you experience signs of infection, such as fever, severe redness, increasing warmth, or pus draining from the injection site. A persistent or worsening headache, especially one more severe when sitting or standing and improving when lying down, could indicate a dural puncture and requires evaluation.
New or worsening weakness or numbness in your arms or legs, or changes in bladder or bowel control, are serious symptoms requiring immediate medical attention. Though rare, severe allergic reactions are a concern; any widespread rash, difficulty breathing, or significant swelling should prompt urgent care. If pain significantly worsens, is not relieved by rest or prescribed medications, or you don’t feel better as expected, contact your healthcare provider.