Spine Injections
Mr McGillion offers a range of spinal injection treatments for the diagnosis and management of neck and back pain, particularly where symptoms arise from inflammation or irritation of spinal nerves and joints. Spinal injections may help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and, in some cases, clarify the precise source of symptoms. They are usually considered when physiotherapy and medication have not provided sufficient improvement and may form part of a comprehensive non-operative treatment plan.
Targeted Foraminal Epidural Injection
A targeted foraminal epidural injection (also known as a selective nerve root injection) is used when a specific spinal nerve is thought to be irritated or compressed.
The injection is delivered into the foramen — the small opening through which the nerve exits the spine. This approach allows medication to be placed precisely around the affected nerve root.
These injections are commonly used to treat:
- Sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation
- Cervical radiculopathy causing arm pain
- Nerve irritation due to spinal stenosis
The injection typically contains a local anaesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In addition to providing symptom relief, the response to the injection can also help confirm whether a particular nerve root is the source of pain.
Caudal Epidural Injection
A caudal epidural injection delivers medication into the epidural space through the sacral hiatus at the base of the spine. This approach allows treatment of inflammation affecting multiple lower lumbar nerve roots.
It is often used in patients with:
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Widespread lower back and leg pain
- Persistent symptoms following previous spinal surgery
Because the medication spreads within the epidural space, this technique can be useful when symptoms are more diffuse rather than confined to a single nerve root.
Facet Joint Injection and Denervation
Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine that contribute to spinal stability and movement. Degeneration or arthritis affecting these joints can be a source of localised neck or back pain.
A facet joint injection involves placing local anaesthetic and steroid directly into the joint or around the small nerves supplying it. These injections may be used diagnostically to determine whether the facet joint is the source of pain.
If significant but temporary relief is achieved, radiofrequency denervation (also known as medial branch neurotomy) may be considered. This procedure uses controlled heat generated by radiofrequency energy to interrupt the small nerves transmitting pain signals from the facet joints. Relief from denervation can last for several months and, in some cases, longer.
Spine Injections
Mr McGillion is happy to assess your symptoms and discuss whether spinal injection therapy may be appropriate for your condition. A detailed consultation will allow you to understand the potential benefits, limitations and alternative treatment options so you can make an informed decision about your ongoing care.