Cortisone shots in the spine

The purpose of the injection is to carry medication to the inner part of the spine where the more serious types of strain and injury can affect the disc and spinal joints, causing pressure or irritation of the nerves, or pain arising from the joints. In most cases, the medication that is going to be used is a very potent anti-inflammatory steroid. Many doctors and patients refer to this medication as "cortisone", although hydrocortisone is rarely used anymore. There are better types of medication similar to hydrocortisone. The goal of the injection is to deliver this potent anti-inflammatory steroid as close as possible to the anatomical structure that your doctor believes is causing your pain, thus providing the greatest chance of pain relief. During most procedures, an IV needle will be placed in your arm in case any medication is needed during the procedure. Blood pressure and pulse are monitored. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes. Minor or temporary reactions may result from the use of the cortisone-type medication and these are rather frequent. The day following the procedure, some patients may develop a facial flush which usually lasts 12 to 24 hours. Occasionally, some women can experience some disruption in their menstrual cycle for 1 or 2 cycles. Extremely rarely, a patient could develop an acute allergic reaction to the anti-inflammatory steroid, and this could be treated promptly with medications during the procedure. Diabetic patients will often experience an increase in their blood sugars which can last for 5 to 7 days. Increased pain is often experienced the evening after the injection and the following day. Although unusual, this pain may last up to seven days. The benefits from the cortisone-type medication injected generally take 24 to 72 hours to occur. Occasionally, it can take seven days for beneficial affects to occur. The medication usually reaches its peak effect by two weeks.

http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/injections/lumbar-epidural-stero id-injections-low-back-pain-and-sciatica