Nerve Root Injections

A Nerve Root Injection is a very common pain management technique performed under CT guidance. A mixture of Local Anaesthetic and Anti-Inflammatory steroid is injected near a swollen or compressed spinal nerve, helping to reduce the inflammation and reduce pain.

Nerve Root injections are often recommended for patients suffering from a ‘pinched nerve’, also known as radicular pain. This usually involves the arms, legs or neck. Pain affecting the legs is often referred to as ‘Sciatica’.

The procedure should not be a painful experience. You may experience some minor discomfort or feel pressure. Local anaesthetic is administered into the area to ensure patients have the most comfortable experience possible.

Patients taking Blood Thinning medication must let our team know prior to their procedure, as they may be asked to cease for a few days before their procedure to minimise the risk of deep tissue bleeding.

We strongly recommend you do not drive immediately after this procedure or for the remainder of the day. Please bring along a support person to drive you home. If this is not possible, please speak to our team about alternative options.

Although this is considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure, any injection comes with a small risk of:

Discomfort at the injection site

  • Bleeding

  • Infection at the injection site

  • Allergic reaction to medication

  • Nerve trauma (very rare)

  • Dural Puncture (very rare)

Contact your GP immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Fever, chills or generally unwell in the days following the injection

  • Redness, pain or swelling at the injection site

  • A significant increase of pain in the area following the injection

CT scan image showing a cross-section of the pelvis area with bones, soft tissues, and a foreign object indicated by a line pointing to a specific area.

CT Guided Nerve Root Injection L5-S1