The most targeted form of epidural injection — medication placed at one specific nerve root rather than spread through the epidural space.
What it is
The needle is advanced to the foramen where a single nerve root exits, and contrast confirms the medication will reach that root. Because it is level-specific and side-specific, it is also a strong diagnostic test: relief tells you which root is generating the pain.
What we use it for
- Single-level sciatica with a clear nerve-root pattern
- Cervical radiculopathy
- Foraminal narrowing affecting one root
- Confirming which level is responsible before surgery
What to expect
- Face down, under live fluoroscopy with contrast confirmation.
- 10 to 20 minutes.
- Relief may be immediate then fade, returning over three to seven days.
- A driver is required.
Risks
Every procedure carries a small risk of bleeding, infection, an allergic reaction, or a temporary increase in pain. Steroid can raise blood sugar for several days, which matters if you are diabetic. Serious complications are rare, and the specific risks for your procedure and your health will be discussed before you consent to anything.
Call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
How is this different from a standard epidural?
An interlaminar epidural delivers medication into the general epidural space. A transforaminal targets one root, which makes it both more precise and more useful diagnostically.
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