A cervical epidural steroid injection delivers medication into the space surrounding the spinal cord in the neck. This procedure aims to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain that may radiate from the neck into the shoulders, arms, or hands. Conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease often cause this pain. The injection typically contains a corticosteroid and sometimes a local anesthetic to numb the nerves. This treatment helps manage chronic pain by targeting irritated spinal nerve roots.
Initial Recovery and Monitoring
Following a cervical epidural injection, patients remain in a recovery area for observation. Medical staff closely monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, to ensure stability and identify any unexpected reactions.
During this time, healthcare professionals observe for signs of dizziness, lightheadedness, or numbness. The local anesthetic might cause temporary heaviness or numbness in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand. Patients are usually cleared for discharge once stable.
Expected Sensations and Pain Management
After a cervical epidural injection, sensations change as the local anesthetic wears off and the steroid takes effect. Immediate pain relief from the anesthetic may diminish within hours, and original pain might temporarily return or even increase before the steroid begins to work. The full anti-inflammatory effects of the steroid usually appear within one to five days.
Patients might notice mild soreness, bruising, or tenderness at the injection site. Applying an ice pack can help reduce this discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also manage mild pain. Temporary numbness or weakness in the affected arm or hand is possible due to the local anesthetic, which should resolve within a few hours.
Post-Procedure Activity and Home Care
After returning home, it is advised to take it easy for the remainder of the day. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or vigorous exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours following the injection. Resuming normal activities like driving is allowed once the numbness from the local anesthetic has completely worn off and the patient feels alert and stable.
Maintaining adequate hydration is advisable in the days following the procedure. Patients should avoid taking a bath or submerging the injection site in water for at least 24 hours to minimize infection risk. Light walking and gentle movements are encouraged to promote circulation, but any activity causing increased pain should be avoided.
Recognizing Potential Complications
While cervical epidural injections are generally safe, it is important to recognize signs that indicate a complication requiring immediate medical attention. A severe headache that worsens when sitting or standing and improves when lying down could signal a dural puncture. Signs of infection at the injection site, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus-like discharge, or a fever, require prompt evaluation.
New or worsening neurological symptoms, including significant muscle weakness, persistent or increasing numbness, or issues with bowel or bladder control, require immediate reporting to a healthcare provider. Although rare, if pain significantly increases and persists for several days after the procedure, or if there are any other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.