ORTHOPEDIC SPINAL INJECTIONS

If you’re struggling with ongoing back or neck pain, orthopedic spinal injections may help relieve symptoms without the need for surgery. These image-guided procedures target the source of pain and inflammation, helping you move more comfortably.

What Are Spinal Injections?

Spinal injections are minimally invasive treatments that deliver a combination of steroid and anesthetic directly into the spine. They’re used to relieve pain caused by:

• Herniated or bulging discs

• Sciatica or nerve compression

• Spinal stenosis

• Degenerative disc disease

• Facet joint arthritis

These injections can also help your provider diagnose the source of your pain.

Types of Orthopedic Spinal Injections

Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI)

Used to treat inflammation and pain from sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal stenosis, epidural injections deliver medication near the nerve roots to reduce swelling and relieve pain that radiates down the arms or legs.

Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections target the small joints in the spine that can become inflamed due to arthritis or injury. This type of injection is both diagnostic and therapeutic.

Medial Branch Blocks

Medial branch blocks numb the nerves supplying the facet joints. If the injection successfully relieves your pain, it may confirm that those joints are the source—often a step before radiofrequency ablation.

Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Injections

When the joint connecting the spine to the pelvis becomes inflamed, it can mimic lower back pain. SI joint injections deliver steroids into this joint to reduce pain and inflammation.

Trigger Point Injections

Trigger point injections target tight bands of muscle, or “knots,” in the back or neck. A small amount of anesthetic (with or without steroid) is injected directly into the muscle to relieve spasm and discomfort.

Benefits of Spinal Injections

• Fast-acting pain relief

• Minimally invasive and outpatient-based

• May delay or avoid surgery

• Helps confirm diagnosis

• Can improve quality of life and function

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your injection will be performed under fluoroscopy (live X-ray) for precision. The area is numbed before the medication is injected. Patients go home the same day and experience symptom relief within a few days.

Is a Spinal Injection Right for You?

If conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications haven’t worked, spinal injections may be a good next step. Our specialists will carefully evaluate your condition to determine the best action.

Why Choose Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin?

• Board-certified spine and orthopedic specialists

• On-site imaging and injection suites

• Individualized treatment plans

• Full-spectrum care—from diagnosis through recovery