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Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection

 

Overview

This injection procedure is performed to relieve low back and radiating leg pain. Steroid medication can reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by spinal conditions.

The patient lies face down. A cushion under the stomach area provides comfort and flexes the back. In this position, the spine opens and allows for easier access to the epidural space.

A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin. All the tissue down to the surface of the lamina portion of the lumbar vertebra bone is anesthetized. The physician slides a thicker needle through the anesthetized track.

Using a fluoroscope for guidance, the physician slides the needle toward the epidural space between the L-4 and L-5 vertebra. A contrast solution is injected. The physician uses the fluoroscope to confirm the correct location of the needle tip.

A steroid-anesthetics mix is injected into the epidural space, bathing the painful nerve root with soothing medication.

The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied to cover the tiny needle surface wound. In some cases it may be necessary to repeat the procedure as many as three times to get the full benefit of the medication. Many patients get significant relief from only one or two injections.

CONTACT THE PAIN CENTER SAN DIEGO

Phone:

619-578-3740 (Service will terminate on 06/28/2024)

Fax:

208-342-4223

Email:

admin@thepaincentersandiego.com

Address:

NONE - PERMANENTLY CLOSED EFFECTIVE 03/21/2024

Hours:

NONE - PERMANENTLY CLOSED EFFECTIVE 03/21/2024

Forms:

AUTHORIZATION TO DISCLOSE PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION

NOTICE OF PERMANENT CLOSURE

Dear Valued Patients and Healthcare Professionals,

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of The Pain Center – San Diego, effective March 21, 2024. We understand the importance of continuity of care and are committed to assisting you during this transition period.

For patients currently under our care for pain management, we urge you to contact your primary care physician promptly to request a referral to another pain management specialist. Your health and well-being remain our top priority, and we want to ensure you continue to receive the necessary care and support.

For medication management patients, please note that we have sent 60 days’ worth of medication to your designated pharmacy. It is imperative that you establish care with another healthcare provider before your medication runs out to avoid any interruptions in your treatment plan.

To obtain your medical records, please follow the instructions below:

Request a "Release of Information" Form: You can email us at admin@thepaincentersandiego.com to request a "Release of Information" form or you can also find one on our website by following this link AUTHORIZATION TO DISCLOSE PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION

Via Request of Another Medical Office: If you wish for your medical records to be transferred to another provider's office, you may sign a written authorization with their office requesting your records be sent to them.

Upon completion of the "Release of Information" form or receipt of written authorization from another medical office, we will send your medical records to the designated receiving party as specified. Please note the following:

  • Records directly to the patient will be provided within 15 days of receiving the request.
  • Other requests may take longer to process (such as to another medical office)
  • Please specify the transmission method for your records: USPS mail (default), email (preferred), or facsimile.
  • Ensure that the form is accurately completed and signed to prevent any delays in processing your request.

Additionally, please be aware of the following:

  • Records will not be compiled until we receive an accurate, completed, and signed written request.
  • Patients are entitled to one free copy of their medical records for personal use.
  • Additional copies will incur copying fees as per California Health & Safety Code Section 123110.
  • Medical records will be retained in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by this closure and extend our gratitude for your trust and loyalty over the years. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at admin@thepaincentersandiego.com.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this transition period.

Warm regards,


Sandra Thompson, MD

The Pain Center – San Diego