Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections in Queens, NY

What Is a Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection?

A lumbar epidural steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space of the lower spine. By targeting irritated or compressed nerves, the injection reduces inflammation and provides long-lasting pain relief.

Lower back pain is one of the most common causes of disability in adults. The lumbar spine supports your upper body, protects the spinal cord, and allows flexibility. When nerves are inflamed or compressed, pain can radiate into the legs, making everyday movement difficult. Epidural injections are an effective option to restore mobility and improve quality of life.

At Axis Pain and Sports Management, Dr. Yakub Abrakhimov, MD specializes in minimally invasive spine procedures designed to break the pain cycle and help patients return to active living.

Conditions Treated with Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

• Herniated discs
  
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
  
• Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy)
  
• Osteoarthritis
  
• Degenerative disc disease
  
• Spondylosis
  
• Axial low back pain
  

If conservative treatments such as rest, medications, or physical therapy haven’t brought relief, an epidural injection may be the next step.

How Do Epidural Steroid Injections Work?

The injection typically contains two components:

• Corticosteroid: Reduces inflammation around the affected nerves.
  
• Anesthetic: Provides immediate pain relief while the steroid takes effect.
  

This combination calms the inflamed nerves and allows patients to better tolerate physical therapy and rehabilitation. Relief often lasts for several months, giving patients time to rebuild strength and mobility.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• You’ll lie on an exam table, and the skin will be numbed with a local anesthetic.
  
• Using fluoroscopic (live X-ray) guidance, Dr. Abrakhimov carefully inserts a thin needle into the epidural space.
  
• A contrast dye ensures accurate placement before the medication is delivered.
  
• The entire procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
  

Mild soreness at the injection site is common and usually subsides quickly. Pain relief may begin within a few days and can last several weeks to months.

Am I a Candidate?

You may benefit from lumbar epidural injections if you experience:

• Chronic lower back pain that limits daily activity
  
• Radiating leg pain, tingling, or numbness
  
• Sciatica or nerve compression confirmed on imaging
  
• Limited improvement with conservative treatments
  

For safety, no more than three to four injections are recommended per year.

Benefits of Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injections

• Minimally invasive and performed in-office
  
• Quick recovery with no hospital stay
  
• Long-lasting pain relief
  
• Improves mobility and function
  
• May help avoid or delay surgery