Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection

The lumbar spine is a collection of bones that make up the part of the spinal column located within the lower back. Medical conditions such as sciatica, herniated discs, and bone spurs can cause the lumbar nerves to become irritated or inflamed, causing pain.

A caudal injection is made into the tailbone (coccyx), which is helpful in situations where implanted medical devices or scar tissue from previous surgeries could make a direct lumbar injection difficult.

Using the guidance of a fluoroscope, the provider injects the steroid into the lowest region of the epidural space, through a hole in the sacrum. The medication then spreads out and bathes the affected nerve, reducing inflammation of the irritated caudal vertebrae and relieving pain.

The amount and length of relief experienced may differ from patient to patient. The epidural steroid injection procedure may be repeated up to three times in a 12-month period.