Last Updated: 2/1/2024
Due to the nature of car accidents, many victims suffer spine or spinal column injuries. Living with a spinal injury is not only painful, but also can force you to make drastic changes to your everyday life. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can assist accident victims and help alleviate some of their pain.
One of these procedures is epidural injections for pain, which involves the injection of anti-inflammatory steroid medication into the epidural space of the spinal column. Speak with your doctor about which medications are involved in your epidural injection treatment and whether you are a candidate for this treatment or may require back surgery and other procedures.
How is the epidural steroid injection procedure performed?
First, you will lie on an X-ray table while the doctor or other medical professional cleans and readies the epidural area for the injection. The doctor will use a fluoroscope to determine the correct spot in your back to place the injection. After confirming the injection site, the needle will inject steroids and pain-relieving or numbing substances directly into the epidural space.
Anti-inflammatory medicines should help reduce swelling and relieve pressure on the nerves causing you pain. The injection is generally not painful, but if you feel anxiety about the procedure, you can ask your physician to give you medication to help you relax. You will remain in the office for a short time after the procedure to ensure you are OK, and then you are free to go home.
Are there any side effects or complications of this procedure?
For the most part, an epidural injection for pain is a safe and effective way to eliminate or reduce pain after a car accident. However, there are a few things that one should watch for, including:
- dizziness;
- headache;
- nausea;
- infection;
- allergy; and
- bleeding.
If you experience any of these symptoms after an epidural steroid injection, do not hesitate to call your doctor. It is important to note that these strong medications can have negative effects on other parts of your body, including your bones and muscles; therefore, most reputable physicians limit epidural injections to two or three times per year, reports MedlinePlus.
Get Legal Help Recovering Damages at Walker, Billingsley & Bair
Back pain and spinal injury patients who suffered injuries in a car accident another driver caused can file an insurance claim. Medical bills like those for an epidural injection are recoverable in a liability claim or lawsuit against the other driver. Other damages may include lost wages, pain and suffering, and more, all of which you should review with a lawyer.
If you have ongoing pain due to an accident for which another party was at fault, call Walker, Billingsley & Bair. Our attorneys understand how to deal with insurance companies and at-fault drivers to help you pursue compensation for your damages, including medical expenses like those for an epidural injection. Call us today at (888) 435-9886 to get the compensation you deserve. You can also Chat Here Now.