An epidural steroid injection places anti-inflammatory medicine near an irritated nerve root to ease sciatica. It can reduce leg pain for weeks to a few months. UK NICE guidelines suggest considering it for acute, severe sciatica. It does not repair the disc.
What to expect
- Done with X-ray or ultrasound guidance
- Takes minutes; you go home the same day
- Relief may start in days
Back or leg pain for more than 6 weeks? Get the free guide and a doctor review of your scan.
Limits and risks
- Relief is often temporary
- Usually limited to a few per year
- Rare risks include infection, bleeding and nerve injury
If epidurals stop helping, options include PRP, stem cells or surgery.