An epidural is used to block pain signals from the body to the brain. An epidural is normally used during childbirth but can be used to treat severe localized pain. A doctor will perform an epidural to relieve pain caused by a herniated disk. The epidural provides an alternative to oral medication, providing pain relief for days or weeks.
Preparation
The doctor will clean and prep the area before administering the epidural injection. If the patient cannot remain calm on his or her own, the doctor may calm the patient with medication in his or her IV line. The doctor will then roll the patient on his or her side and provide pillows to keep the patient comfortable.
Administering
After the patient has been cleaned and prepped, the doctor may or may not provide local anesthesia to the skin around the injection site. Next, the doctor will use an X-ray tube to pinpoint his or her injection site. Finally, the doctor will begin filling the space in between the spine and disc with medication.
Aftercare
The medication usually takes 20 minutes to kick in, at which point pain should subdue. Depending on the strength of medication used, the patient may or may not be able to walk or move well. When a patient is able to continue use of his or her limbs, it is called a walking epidural.
