Spine Conditions & Injections
For information on the following topics, please click below:
Most spinal injections take only 5 to 10 minutes to perform and most patients can return to work the same day. However, driving on the day of the injection is not allowed. All spinal injection procedures that are done in our office are performed using state-of-the-art fluoroscopy (x-ray guidance). Minor side effects from injected corticosteroids may include temporary stomach upset, insomnia, hot flash type symptoms, irritability and menstrual cycle irregularities. Minor complications may include temporary arm or leg weakness, soreness at the injection site, the temporary increase in symptoms and spinal headache. Extremely rare complications can occur including infection, prolonged bleeding, allergic reaction and paralysis. Dr. Carter has an impeccable safety record and has not experienced any of these serious complications in her practice. Success rates using Dr. Carter’s techniques and protocols are excellent but can vary depending on one’s spinal condition and lifestyle.
Epidural Steroid Injections
What is an Epidural Steroid Injection for back pain and sciatica?
An Epidural Steroid Injection is a medical procedure that is conducted when other nonsurgical treatments have failed to eliminate lower back and radiating leg pain caused by herniated discs and inflamed spinal nerves. Epidural Steroid Injections have been used for such purposes for decades. The procedure involves placement of very strong anti-inflammatory medication close to the inflamed nerves using a fine needle and x-ray guidance.
The Procedure
The epidural steroid injection is administered in the office or in some cases in a surgical center with local anesthetic. The injection is given with the patient laying down on their stomach and usually takes 5-10 minutes with a 20 minute post-injection observation and recovery period.
To see how this information is performed please see the following videos:
Why Choose Dr. Carter?
Dr. Alicia Carter has over 18 years of experience treating spinal conditions and performing spinal injections. Dr. Carter is a respected Assistant Clinical Professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She has taught spinal injection techniques at national leading organizations including the North American Spine Society. For more information on Dr. Alicia Carter, read her Bio:
Spine Conditions
Cervical Radiculopathy
This condition is an irritation or compression of one or more nerve roots in the cervical spine. Because these nerves travel to the shoulders, arms and hands, an injury in the cervical spine can cause symptoms in these areas. Cervical radiculopathy may result from a variety of problems with the bones and tissues of the cervical spinal column.
Facet Syndrome
This condition is a deterioration of the facet joints, which help stabilize the spine and limit excessive motion. The facet joints are lined with cartilage and are surrounded by a lubricating capsule that enables the vertebrae to bend and twist.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc is a common injury that can affect any part of the spine. A herniated disc can cause severe pain and other problems in the arms or legs.
Lumbar Radiculopathy (Sciatica)
This condition is an irritation or compression of one or more nerve roots in the lumbar spine. Because these nerves travel to the hips, buttocks, legs and feet, an injury in the lumbar spine can cause symptoms in these areas. Sciatica may result from a variety of problems with the bones and tissues of the lumbar spinal column.
Spinal Stenosis
The spinal column contains open spaces that create passageways for the spinal cord and the spinal nerves. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of (or an intrusion into) these openings. This can cause a compression of the nerves. Spinal stenosis most commonly affects the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine.
Where The Back Pain Begins
Lower back pain is a common problem that severely impacts the quality of your life. It can limit your ability to be active. It can cause you to miss work. Many different causes may lead to pain in your lower back.
Spine/Non-Surgical Procedures
Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection
This outpatient procedure is an injection of a steroid-anesthetic medication through an opening in the sacrum. The medication can reduce swelling and inflammation of irritated spinal nerves. The injection takes only a few minutes to complete.
Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection
This injection relieves pain in the neck, shoulders, and arms caused by a pinched nerve (or nerves) in the cervical spine. Conditions such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis can compress nerves, causing inflammation and pain. The medication injected helps decrease the swelling of nerves.
Facet Joint Injections
The facet joints, found on both sides of the back of the spine, can become painfully irritated or inflamed. A facet joint injection may help diagnose the source of a patient’s pain. It can also relieve pain and inflammation.
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection
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.
Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection
This outpatient procedure is an injection of a steroid-anesthetic medication. The medication can reduce swelling and inflammation of irritated spinal nerves. This procedure is performed to relieve pain in the lower back and pain that radiates from the back to the legs. The injection takes only a few minutes to complete.
Medial Branch Block
This is an injection of numbing medicine. It bathes the medial branch nerves, which attach to the facet joints of your spine. These nerves hurt when facet joints are injured or diseased. The injection helps find the source of your pain. And it may relieve your pain for a brief time.
Platelet Rich Plasma
Platelet rich plasma therapy can help injured joints and other problems. It uses parts of your own blood to reduce pain and speed up healing.
Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection
This injection procedure is performed to relieve pain caused by arthritis in the sacroiliac joint where the spine and hip bone meet. The steroid medication can reduce swelling and inflammation in the joint.
Our Services
Dr. Carter has an excellent safety record and has taught injection techniques all across the country.
Dr. Carter’s PRP protocols are backed by the latest scientific data. Her pre-and post injection protocols are unique and specifically tailored to the individual patient’s goals and objectives.
Fitness and sports enthusiasts of all levels, from weekend warriors to professional athletes have benefited under Dr. Carter’s care. Performing artists with career-threatening injuries have been able to return to their profession with Dr. Carter’s holistic approach to treatment.
Miami Office
2800 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 1010
Miami, Florida 33137
Tel: (305) 680-3527
Call us
For hours and appointment
information, please call our office
NY Office
425 Madison Avenue, Ste 302
New York, NY 10017
Tel: (212)794-7040
Copyright © 2019 Alicia R. Carter, MD