What exactly is a spine block injection? Will it work long-term for low back pain due to disc problems?

Dr. Prateek PatilOrthopedist7yrs exp

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Hello lybrate user, spine block injections are different types of injections which target the pain generating sites. The rationale is to inject an anesthetic agent (block the nerves which sense pain) into the structures which are generating pain. This can be used for diagnosis of or confirmation of a painful structure suspected to be the pain generator. This can also be used for treatment of painful structures, but the relief is mostly for a short term, 3 to 4 months usually. You might also require multiple injections for a longer duration of relief. Some surgeons use a steroid medication for injection as well. This is mainly to decrease the inflammatory component irritating the nerve roots. Steroid injections also give a temporary relief but can have a lasting effect if inflammatory component is the major culprit compared to a mechanical compression of the nerves. But, the decision making for use of injections is quite complex and I would suggest you to consult a spine surgeon experienced in injection techniques for a complete clinical assessment and the right injection for you. Hope this helps. 

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