Evaluation of Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection for Managing Low Back Pain and Lumbar Radiculopathy in a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Background: Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) have been a prevalent therapeutic intervention for managing pain due to lumbar disc injuries since the 1950s, particularly in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathies. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of caudal ESIs in alleviating pain and improving functional outcomes in affected patients.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS) in Patna over one year, involving 50 patients with low back pain and radiculopathy. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, followed by caudal epidural steroid injections.

Results: Follow-up evaluations showed that 80% of patients reported complete pain relief by the third day, increasing to 92% by the first month, with all patients (100%) pain-free by the third month. The study also indicated the effectiveness of the intervention when complemented with physiotherapy and postural corrections.

Conclusion: Caudal epidural steroid injections are effective and safe for managing low back pain associated with radiculopathy, significantly improving patient outcomes. These findings support the use of this technique as a reliable option for pain management in this patient population.