Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection

A caudal epidural steroid injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce inflammation and pain in the lower back and legs. The caudal epidural space is located at the very bottom of the spine near the tailbone (sacrum).

By injecting steroid medication and a local anesthetic into this space, the procedure helps calm irritated nerves, leading to pain relief.

It is a commonly recommended treatment for sciatica, lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and chronic lower back pain.

Your provider may recommend this injection if you have:

• Chronic low back pain with or without leg pain (sciatica)
• Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Herniated or bulging lumbar discs
• Degenerative disc disease
• Persistent pain after spine surgery (failed back surgery syndrome)

The goal is to reduce inflammation, decrease nerve irritation, and improve mobility and function without the need for surgery.

The procedure is typically done in an outpatient setting under mild sedation (if needed).

• You will lie face down on an X-ray table.
• The skin over your tailbone area is cleaned, sterilized, and numbed with a local anesthetic.
• Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) guidance, your provider will carefully place a thin needle into the caudal epidural space.
• A combination of steroid medication and local anesthetic is slowly injected to bathe the affected nerves.
• The procedure usually takes about 20–30 minutes, and you are monitored briefly afterward before going home.

• Immediate numbness or pain relief may occur due to the anesthetic, but it might wear off in a few hours.
• Steroid effects typically begin within 2–5 days, leading to longer-term pain reduction.
• You may experience mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two.
• Light activity is encouraged after the procedure, but avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting for 24–48 hours.
• Many patients report significant improvement in back and leg pain lasting weeks to months after a successful injection.

Caudal epidural steroid injections are generally very safe. Potential, but rare, risks include:

• Temporary increase in back or leg pain
• Headache (especially if spinal fluid is unintentionally contacted)
• Infection at the injection site (rare)
• Bleeding or nerve irritation (very rare)
• Allergic reaction to medications (extremely rare)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use advanced imaging and sterile techniques to minimize risks and ensure your safety.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified spine and pain management specialists
• Fluoroscopy-guided precision injections
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your condition
• Minimally invasive therapies for faster recovery and better outcomes

Our goal is to help you live with less pain, move better, and regain your quality of life.