A caudal epidural injection is given near the base of the spine. Medication spreads into the epidural space around the lower spinal nerves.
When might it be considered?
Professor Bateman offers it to selected people with leg symptoms from irritation or narrowing around the nerves. The main aim is to reduce nerve-related leg pain or heaviness. It may sometimes help back symptoms, but the response is difficult to predict.
What happens?
The injection contains local anaesthetic and steroid. The procedure is performed with imaging to guide the needle and confirm its position. You are observed afterwards before discharge.
Pain relief may be short-lived or last longer. It may take up to a couple of weeks to judge the full effect.
What are the alternatives and risks?
Options may include medication, activity advice, physiotherapy or assessment for surgery, depending on the cause. Risks include temporary discomfort or a pain flare, infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and nerve injury. Steroid can also affect blood glucose in people with diabetes and cause irregular menstruation in women.
Please tell the team about blood-thinning medicines and other relevant conditions. You will receive instructions tailored to your medicines and your procedure.
Detailed patient leaflet
Read Professor Bateman’s information leaflet before your procedure and bring any questions to your consultation.
Open the PDF leaflet →