How Do Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections Help Manage Back Pain?

The National Science Foundation recently injected over $1 million to a multidisciplinary research team at the University of California in San Diego to come up with new approaches to the study and treatment of chronic lower back pain.

Until the results of this novel research are in, there is a range of cutting-edge treatments and therapies that have been developed to manage chronic back pain and its related conditions.

Trans for aminal epidural steroid injections (TFESI), for example, manage back pain by reducing inflammation of the affected nerves.

What Are the Causes of Lumbar Pain?

In addition to spinal stenosis and herniated discs, the causes of back or lumbar pain include:

• arthritis
• cancer
• injury
• renal infection
• sciatica
• spinal infections or abnormalities.

Do Trans for aminal Epidural Steroid Injections Cure Lumbar Pain?

Transforaminal epidural steroid injections do not cure lumbar pain. TFESI is a supportive treatment that can relieve back pain when combined with other pain management therapies.

What Can I Expect After a Trans for aminal Epidural Steroid Injection?

TFESI is an outpatient procedure that is administered in short 20-to-30-minute sessions at clinics like the Lone Star Pain Medicine center in Weatherford, Texas.

A pain physician will bathe your spinal cord in steroids using a thin needle, an x-ray machine called a fluoroscope, and local anesthetic.

TFESI aims to reduce inflammation inside the spine and relieve the associated pain. After a short monitoring and observation period, your doctor will allow you to go home and rest.

You may experience some pain at the injection site; however, you should be able to resume your daily activities the next day.

How Many Trans for aminal Epidural Steroid Injections Do I Need to Reduce Lower Back Pain?

Most patients require one trans for aminal epidural steroid injection, while others need two or three sessions to experience significant pain relief. Injections are generally spaced out over a six-month period.

Your doctor may also recommend other pain management therapies to ensure you experience the full benefits of a TFESI treatment.

What Can I Do to Reduce or Prevent Lumbar Pain?

According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, one of the most effective ways to reduce or prevent lumbar pain is to strengthen your core and back muscles.

Posture

It’s essential that you maintain good posture when sitting or standing. Keep your shoulders back and relaxed. Make use of ergonomic furniture if you spend a lot of time sitting down.

If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees to relieve pressure on your lower back. Make sure your mattress and pillows are firm and support your body.

Exercise

Avoid lifting heavy objects; however, if you must, keep your back as straight as possible and engage your leg muscles.

Regular exercises and stretches will also help you avoid back injuries and strains. Try this set of lower back exercises by Calisthenic Movement

Nutrition

Speak to your primary care physician and an experienced nutritionist to create a nutritious, balanced diet. You need to provide your muscles and bones with the right vitamins and minerals to support their growth and regeneration in case of injury or trauma.

Consider a supportive treatment such as IV hydration and vitamin therapy to boost levels of magnesium, zinc, and vitamin B complex for energy as well as muscle and nerve health.

Final Thoughts

Combine transforaminal epidural steroid injections with regular exercise, rest, and a balanced diet to prevent lower back pain.

Discuss alternative pain therapies with your physician and pain management experts to effectively relieve lumbar pain.

A pain-free future is not far off; however, it will require team work and support.