Spinal Injections: What They Are and How They Can Help
Spinal injections are a minimally invasive treatment option used to alleviate pain and inflammation in the spine. These injections deliver medication, often a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid, directly to the affected area. The aim is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance the effectiveness of other rehabilitation methods such as physiotherapy. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we understand the role spinal injections can play in managing spinal conditions and support our clients through the recovery process.
When Are Spinal Injections Used?
Spinal injections can be beneficial for a variety of spinal conditions that cause pain, including:
Herniated or Bulging Discs: When the discs in the spine press on nearby nerves, they can cause significant pain. Spinal injections can help reduce inflammation around the affected nerve roots.
Spinal Stenosis: This condition, characterised by the narrowing of the spinal canal, can put pressure on the nerves, leading to pain and discomfort. Injections can help alleviate the inflammation and reduce symptoms.
Degenerative Disc Disease: As the spinal discs break down with age, they can cause pain and stiffness. Spinal injections can help to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
Sciatica: Pain that radiates down the leg due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve can often be managed with spinal injections.
Facet Joint Pain: Inflammation or degeneration of the small joints located between the vertebrae can cause localised back pain. Injections into these joints can provide relief.
Types of Spinal Injections
There are several different types of spinal injections, depending on the location and the nature of the pain:
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESI): These are commonly used to treat pain associated with nerve irritation, such as sciatica. The injection is placed into the epidural space around the spinal cord.
Facet Joint Injections: These target the facet joints in the spine, often used for localised back pain.
Nerve Root Blocks: This type of injection is used to diagnose and relieve pain by targeting a specific nerve root in the spine.
How Physiotherapy Complements Spinal Injections
While spinal injections can help reduce pain, they are often most effective when combined with a structured physiotherapy program. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our approach includes:
Rehabilitation Exercises: We provide personalised exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and stability of the spine. This can help address the underlying cause of the pain.
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation can aid in improving spinal mobility and reducing muscle tension.
Posture and Movement Retraining: Proper posture and movement techniques are essential for preventing further strain on the spine.
Education and Advice: We offer guidance on activity modification and self-management strategies to support long-term recovery.
Conclusion
Spinal injections can be an effective way to manage spinal pain and facilitate your rehabilitation process. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we support our clients in using these injections as part of a comprehensive approach to recovery. If you're experiencing spinal pain, get in touch with us to discuss how we can help you achieve relief and return to your normal activities.
