Understanding Image-Guided Spinal Injections: A Modern Approach to Back Pain Relief
Back pain is one of the most common health problems experienced in the UK, with millions of adults having to deal with pain at some point in their lives. Whether or not it be because of age-related wear and tear, injury or even just an ongoing condition, constant pain can interfere with one’s work, sleep and daily life. Whilst some will respond to rest and physiotherapy, others need more specific treatment.
While older techniques for implant placement rely on non-real-time imaging to establish the location of a nerve and the positioning of an implant, the use of real-time imaging (X-ray, CT scan) improves accuracy, safety, and efficacy.
If you suffer from chronic back pain or sciatica, this treatment could play a major role in your pain management plan. Let’s unpack how it operates, who it benefits and what you can expect.
What Are Image-Guided Spinal Injections?
Image-guided spinal injections are where anti-inflammatory medicine (usually a corticosteroid) is injected alongside a long-acting local anaesthetic into the spine at the point that is causing pain. “Image-guided” refers to the use of fluoroscopy (real-time, continuous X-ray) or a CT scan to accurately target the needle placement near irritated nerves or joints in the body.
This approach has several benefits:
- Pinpoint Accuracy – Less risk of glancing off.
- Minimal Effort Required – Just suck and swallow; it’s easy to carry with you and no water is required for consumption.
- Easy to Be Absorbed – Quickly dissolves in the oral cavity, meaning there are no low GI restrictions and no upset stomach.
- Minimised Discomfort – All the benefits of ibuprofen but practically no discomfort. The product range works together to provide 24-hour relief from joint pain and inflammation.
- Effervescent Formulation – Tastes great and is ready to be taken anytime and anywhere.
- Increased Safety – Reduces the incidence of complications as compared to blind injections.
They may be placed for a nerve block, a facet block, or an epidural, which depends on the origin of the pain.
Who is a Good Candidate for This Procedure?
While not all, image-guided spinal injections may be very beneficial for particular conditions, such as:
- Chronic lower back pain (specifically, pain from disc degeneration or arthritis).
- Sciatica (sharp pain in the back down the leg due to nerve compression).
- Stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal).
- Painful facet joints (a common problem in ageing spines).
Who is Not Suitable for the Procedure?
You may not be able to receive this treatment if you:
- Have an active spinal infection.
- Have uncontrollable coagulopathies.
- Have some of the spinal tumours.
Before turning to injections, your Chase Lodge Hospital specialist will go over your MRI or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis and eliminate other causes of pain.
How the Test is Performed
Before the Injection
- You will have a consultation during which your medical history and expectations will be discussed.
- You may be told to stop taking blood-thinning medications (for example, aspirin) before the procedure.
During the Procedure
- Positioning — You will be positioned comfortably on an X-ray table, lying on your stomach or side.
- Imaging Guidance – A physician targets the precise injection location using live X-ray or CT.
- Numbing the Site – A local anaesthetic is utilised to help minimise pain.
- Injection – A narrow needle injects the steroid and anaesthetic combination into or around the affected nerve or joint.
The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you’re able to go home the same day.
Advantages and Anticipated Outcomes
Most patients experience:
- Pain drains in 3–5 days (but some get relief sooner).
- A decrease in inflammation of the nerves that are compressed.
- Better mobility – getting in and out of physiotherapy and for daily activities.
Results vary, but for many people, relief is offered for weeks to months, and repeat injections can be given if necessary.
Risks and Considerations
Like all medical interventions, there are potential risks, though severe complications are uncommon:
- Mild, short-lived pain where you had the injection.
- Mild bruising or bleeding.
- Infrequent complications (infection, nerve irritation, or allergic reactions).
Remember, spinal injections are not a cure but are a way of managing pain as part of an overall treatment package that may include physiotherapy and lifestyle changes.
How to Know When to See a Specialist
If you have faced ongoing lower back pain and conservative treatments have not been successful, image-guided spinal injections may help relieve your symptoms.
The process begins with an extensive examination to ensure you are a candidate for this type of treatment. Don’t suffer with back pain — get the advice you need and find your solution.
To talk to us about whether image-guided spinal injections may be suitable for you, book an appointment at Chase Lodge Hospital with one of our consultants today.
