What is a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?
A cervical epidural steroid injection (CESI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat neck pain caused by inflammation around the spinal nerves. The injection delivers a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space in the neck, helping reduce swelling, nerve irritation, and radiating pain.
CESI is commonly recommended for conditions such as cervical disc bulge, herniated disc, cervical radiculopathy, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression that causes pain traveling to the shoulders or arms.
When is a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Recommended?
A CESI may be recommended for patients who experience:
- Persistent neck pain radiating to the arm or shoulder
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness caused by nerve compression
- Pain not resolving with medications or physiotherapy
- Cervical disc bulges or herniations
- Spinal stenosis-related symptoms
- Flare-ups of chronic neck pain
- Difficulty sleeping or performing daily activities due to nerve irritation
The injection helps calm inflammation and provides relief that supports rehabilitation.
What are the Benefits of Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?
Benefits include:
- Reduction of nerve inflammation in the cervical spine
- Relief from neck pain and radiating arm pain
- Improved mobility and daily function
- Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
- Helps delay or avoid cervical spine surgery
- Complements physiotherapy and strengthening programs
- Provides relief for several weeks to months depending on the severity
How is a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection Performed?
The procedure is performed under sterile conditions with detailed imaging guidance:
- The patient lies comfortably, and the neck area is cleaned.
- A local anesthetic numbs the skin.
- A fine needle is guided into the cervical epidural space using fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance).
- Steroid medication is injected slowly to reduce nerve inflammation.
- The patient rests briefly and then returns home.
Fluoroscopic imaging ensures accuracy and safety throughout the procedure.
What is the Recovery Process Like?
Recovery is generally quick and uncomplicated:
- Mild soreness at the injection site may occur for 24–48 hours
- Ice packs help reduce temporary discomfort
- Normal daily activities typically resume the next day
- Pain relief often begins within 3–5 days
- Physiotherapy may be recommended for long-term strengthening
- Heavy lifting should be avoided for 2–3 days after the injection
How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection?
Relief usually begins within a few days, with maximum improvement developing over 1–2 weeks.
The duration of relief varies depending on the severity of nerve compression, spinal health, and activity level.
Some patients may benefit from repeat injections spaced weeks apart as part of a structured care plan.
Which is the best hospital for Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection in Chennai?
Shri Bone & Joint Clinic offers precise, image-guided cervical epidural steroid injections to relieve neck and radiating arm pain. Based on the patient’s symptoms, the doctor may also recommend supportive treatments such as a Corticosteroid Injection or consider biologic approaches including a Regenerative Injection when appropriate.
Who is the best doctor for Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection in Chennai?
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy, Orthopedic Specialist at Shri Bone & Joint Clinic, performs safe and accurate cervical epidural steroid injections using fluoroscopic guidance. When needed, he may also advise complementary options such as Ozone Therapy, Ozone Injections, a general Epidural Steroid Injection, or additional spine treatments like a Lumbar Epidural Injection, providing complete care from an experienced Orthopedic Specialist in Chennai.
What is the cost of Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection in Chennai?
The cost of a CESI depends on the imaging technique used, medications involved, and the complexity of the condition.
| Category | Approx. Range (₹) |
| Non-surgical care / Diagnostics | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| Standard Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection | ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 |
| Fluoroscopy-Guided Injection | ₹12,000 – ₹22,000 |
| Advanced / Biologic Add-ons | ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation | ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 |
Insurance coverage is often available when the procedure is medically indicated for nerve compression or radiculopathy.
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Chennai - 20.
Phone: 044 3549 0206