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Epidural Steroid Injections

Targeted Relief for Back, Neck and Nerve Pain

At UES Interventional Pain we understand that spine pain can be debilitating. Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) are one of the most powerful and effective minimally invasive tools we utilize to break the pain cycle, reduce inflammation, and help you return to a pain-free, active life.

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Double Board-Certified

Award Winning

Ivy League Excellence

Patients’ Choice

Same-Day Appointments

Ivy League Excellence

Award Winning

Double Board-Certified

Award Winning

Award Winning

Patients’ Choice

Book Online WHAT TO EXPECT FOR YOUR FIRST VISIT

What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI)?

An Epidural Steroid Injection is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly to the source of nerve irritation along your spine (in the neck, mid-back, or lower back).

THE MECHANISM OF RELIEF

The injection commonly consists of two main components delivered into the epidural space (the area surrounding the spinal cord, discs and nerve roots):

  • 1. Corticosteroid: This potent anti-inflammatory medication is the core of the treatment. It reduces the swelling and irritation around the affected nerve roots, providing the potential for long-term relief (weeks to months and beyond).
  • 2. Local Anesthetic: This medication provides instant, temporary numbing. It helps confirm the accurate placement of the needle, confirms the diagnosis and offers immediate pain relief.

WHY IS AN EPIDURAL USED?

When spinal nerves are compressed or inflamed (often by a herniated disc, bone spurs (e.g. arthritis), or spinal narrowing), they cause pain that can radiate down your arms or legs (radiculopathy or sciatica). The epidural interrupts this pain cycle, allowing the nerve to heal and providing a crucial window for you to comfortably engage in physical activity and therapy.

Types of Epidural Injections

Interlaminar

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.

Transforaminal

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.

Caudal

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.

Conditions We Treat with Epidural Injections

Epidurals are a cornerstone treatment for pain caused by nerve compression. We use them effectively to treat:

Sciatica / Radiculopathy

Pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates down the leg (sciatica) or arm (cervical radiculopathy) due to an irritated nerve root, affecting the lower body (leg/foot) or upper body (arm/hand).

Herniated or Bulging Disc

Disc material presses on nearby nerves, causing inflammation and pain localized to the area of the herniation.

Spinal Stenosis

Narrowing of the spinal canal, which crowds and compresses the spinal nerves, commonly affecting the low back, legs, and feet.

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)

Age-related breakdown of spinal discs leading to instability, inflammation, and nerve irritation in the affected region of the spine.

Woman experiencing lower back pain
Man stretching after epidural treatment

How Long Does an Epidural Last? (The Window of Opportunity)

The duration of pain relief varies by patient, but the typical timeline is:

Days 1–3 (Initial Phase)

The local anesthetic wears off. Some soreness at the injection site or a return of original pain is common before the steroid begins working.

Weeks 1–2 (Steroid Kicks In)

The corticosteroid takes effect. You should notice a steady, significant reduction in nerve pain.

Months 1–6 (The Crucial Phase)

For many patients, the relief lasts for several weeks to months or longer. This sustained relief is a powerful “window of opportunity” to pursue physical therapy and strengthening exercises needed for long-term functional recovery.

The Epidural Procedure: What to Expect

The procedure is quick, safe, and typically completed within under 5 minutes by Dr. Spiegel.

Before the Procedure

  • We review your medical history, imaging (MRI), and current medications.
  • You may be asked to temporarily stop certain medications (like blood thinners).
  • No general anesthesia is required. Most do well with local anesthesia, but sedation is available upon request.

During the Procedure

  • You lie comfortably on the procedure table.
  • The skin is cleaned and a local numbing agent is injected.
  • Fluoroscopy (low-dose X-ray) is used for precise needle guidance, ensuring accuracy and safety.
  • The medication is slowly injected. You may feel a brief pressure sensation.

After the Procedure

  • You rest in a recovery area for a short time (15–30 minutes).
  • Most patients resume light activity the next day.
  • We advise avoiding strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.
Person walking outside

If chronic back, neck, or nerve pain is limiting your quality of life, an Epidural Steroid Injection may be the safe, effective treatment you’ve been looking for.

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Common Questions About Epidural Steroid Injections

1. How effective are Epidural Injections?

Epidural Steroid Injections are highly effective, particularly for pain caused by specific nerve compression such as sciatica or disc herniations. Most patients report significant pain reduction and improved functional ability, often avoiding the need for more invasive treatments like surgery.

2. How long does an epidural steroid injection last?

The pain relief from an epidural steroid injection typically lasts from several weeks up to months, and oftentimes beyond. This period is referred to as the “Window of Opportunity,” during which reduced pain allows you to maximize the benefits of physical therapy and strengthening—the key to achieving sustained, long-term recovery and preventing pain recurrence.

3. How many epidural injections can I receive per year?

Most patients can receive up to three or four injections per year, with a minimum of two to three weeks between each procedure. Your UES Interventional Pain specialist will determine the optimal schedule based on your response and diagnosis.

4. Do epidural steroid injections hurt?

No, they are generally not painful. A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin first, so most patients only feel a sensation of pressure during the procedure.

5. Can epidural injections replace back surgery?

Yes, often they can. Epidurals are highly effective in treating pain from herniated discs and sciatica. By reducing inflammation, the injection can often resolve symptoms entirely, helping patients avoid or delay the need for invasive surgery.

6. Are epidural steroid injections safe?

Yes. When performed by a qualified Interventional Pain Specialist using fluoroscopy, or low-dose X-ray guidance, Epidural steroid injections are considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure with a low risk of serious complications.

7. Are epidural injections for pain the same as labor epidurals?

No, as both epidurals use continuous local anesthetic to numb the lower body during delivery, while therapeutic epidural steroid injections deliver a single, image-guided dose of anti-inflammatory medication to a specific irritated nerve root to reduce pain over weeks to months, without numbing or limiting mobility.

Expert Care and Proven Results with a Top Clinical Team

With a proven record of success, Dr. Spiegel delivers expert care that leads to lasting relief for patients.

NYU Grossman
Pediatric Narrative
Award

Recognizing Outstanding Contributions to Pediatric Medicine

Hofstra/Northwell
Teaching Associate
Award

Recognizing Excellence in Medical Education and Mentorship

Ivy League
Excellence

Cornell University Graduate with Distinguished Expertise

Double
Board-Certified

Expertise Specialist in Interventional Pain Management and Anesthesiology

Phi Beta Kappa Honors

Recognized for Academic Excellence and Achievement

Official Medical Partner
of NYS Troopers PBA

Trusted Provider for Law Enforcement Health Needs

NYU Scholar Award

Honoring Academic Excellence and Research Achievement

Abstract Award

NY/NJ Society of Interventional Pain Physicians Annual Symposium

Learn More About Us

Matthew A. Spiegel, MD

Founder & Medical Director,
UES Interventional Pain

Dual board-certified in Interventional Pain Management and Anesthesiology, and Ivy-League trained, Dr. Spiegel stands apart from other NYC clinics by pairing top-tier expertise with the latest innovative techniques, providing personalized, hospital-grade care in a welcoming outpatient setting.

More About Dr. Spiegel

Your Visit, Step by Step

1

It Starts With Pain

Whether it’s back pain, nerve pain, or something you can’t quite explain, it’s disrupting your life, and you’re looking for real answers. You’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep living this way.

Back, nerve, or unexplained pain -we help you find answers and relief.

2

Book Your Appointment

Choose a time that works - in person or virtual, and take the first step.

Choose a convenient time for your consultation — in person or virtual — and take the first real step toward relief. Our team is ready to listen.

Book Online
CALL: 917-694-2212
Complete Intake Forms

Fill out your intake forms online ahead of time to speed up your visit.

Send Documents to [email protected]

Send us any relevant MRIs, EMGs, or documents you'd like our team to review ahead of your visit to:

3

Get a Personalized Care Plan

At your first visit, Dr. Spiegel will take the time to understand your unique experience. After a thorough evaluation, we’ll build a targeted, minimally invasive plan designed around your needs and goals.

Dr. Spiegel creates a plan tailored to your pain, goals, and lifestyle.

4

Feel Relief, Live Fully

Many patients start to feel better after just a few treatments. With expert care and ongoing support, you’ll be on the path to moving, living, and feeling like yourself again - pain free!

With expert care, many patients feel better in just a few treatments.

Reviews & Testimonials

Browse Reviews

Google Reviews

“Glad I found Dr. Spiegel”

Offers treatment possibilities that have not been explored by other doctors I’ve consulted and been treated by. The staff is exceptional. Caring, patient. I recommend the good doctor and his aides and staff.

Google Reviews

“I truly believe this doctor cares deeply about his patients.”

His team is incredible, which speaks volumes about the quality of care and his representation in this world. He has helped me improve my health, and I feel fortunate to have met him in a city filled with millions of doctors.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel is exceptional in diagnosis and treatment”

He is thorough, efficient, caring and effective. His office staff is quite literally the kindest, most professionally managed group I’ve encountered in NYC. I highly recommend.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel is a lifesaver!”

He really took the time to listen and got me back on track fast. Super friendly staff, and the whole process was a breeze. I’m finally feeling relief, and I couldn’t be happier. Highly recommended if you’re looking for real results.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel provided fantastic and personal care”

After a long and arduous journey searching for relief Dr. Speigel helped me regain my life. I am forever thankful for Dr. Speigel’s personal care and excellent bedside manner. He had great bed side manner as well.

Google Reviews

“Caring, compassionate and helpful”

He listened carefully and was responsive to any questions that I had. His staff were also extremely helpful and kind.

Google Reviews

After 30 years of suffering the worst neck pain anyone can endure and having multiple surgery this man fixed it with on simple injection to my neck! I wasn't planing on continuing my life like this this man saved my life!

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel was phenomenal”

Dr. Spiegel was phenomenal! He asked a lot of questions about the pain I was feeling, he performed some tests, and seamlessly was able to schedule an MRI and cortisone shots for my back. Would highly recommend.

Google Reviews

“Glad I found Dr. Spiegel”

Offers treatment possibilities that have not been explored by other doctors I’ve consulted and been treated by. The staff is exceptional. Caring, patient. I recommend the good doctor and his aides and staff.

Google Reviews

“I truly believe this doctor cares deeply about his patients.”

His team is incredible, which speaks volumes about the quality of care and his representation in this world. He has helped me improve my health, and I feel fortunate to have met him in a city filled with millions of doctors.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel is exceptional in diagnosis and treatment”

He is thorough, efficient, caring and effective. His office staff is quite literally the kindest, most professionally managed group I’ve encountered in NYC. I highly recommend.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel is a lifesaver!”

He really took the time to listen and got me back on track fast. Super friendly staff, and the whole process was a breeze. I’m finally feeling relief, and I couldn’t be happier. Highly recommended if you’re looking for real results.

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel provided fantastic and personal care”

After a long and arduous journey searching for relief Dr. Speigel helped me regain my life. I am forever thankful for Dr. Speigel’s personal care and excellent bedside manner. He had great bed side manner as well.

Google Reviews

“Caring, compassionate and helpful”

He listened carefully and was responsive to any questions that I had. His staff were also extremely helpful and kind.

Google Reviews

After 30 years of suffering the worst neck pain anyone can endure and having multiple surgery this man fixed it with on simple injection to my neck! I wasn't planing on continuing my life like this this man saved my life!

Google Reviews

“Dr. Spiegel was phenomenal”

Dr. Spiegel was phenomenal! He asked a lot of questions about the pain I was feeling, he performed some tests, and seamlessly was able to schedule an MRI and cortisone shots for my back. Would highly recommend.

Browse Reviews

Where To Find Us

Upper East Side

215 E 77th St.
(Between 2nd & 3rd Ave)New York, NY 10075

6 train, 1.5 blocks at 77th & Lexington Ave.

Q train at 72nd & 2nd Ave or 86th St & 2nd Ave.

Handicap Accessible

Public Parking

  • CitiParking, 77th & 3rd
  • Lenox Parking, 77th & 2nd
  • Icon Parking, 75th & 2nd
917-694-2212 Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

When you’re in pain, you need more than a quick prescription or a rushed five-minute visit. At UES Interventional Pain, we combine medical expertise with a patient-first approach so you feel heard, understood, and confident in your care.

  • Board-Certified Expertise – Our physicians are trained in the most advanced interventional pain techniques, so you get precise, targeted treatment.
  • Local Care, Global Standards – We’re right here in the Upper East Side, serving patients from across Manhattan and beyond, but we hold ourselves to the highest international standards of safety and outcomes.
  • Tailored Treatment Plans – No one-size-fits-all care. Every plan is built around your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
  • Access and Convenience – Same-day and next-day appointments, easy subway access, and nearby parking options make getting care stress-free.

Whether you need a simple injection or a minimally invasive procedure, we guide you through every step with the goal of not just easing your pain, but helping you move freely and confidently again.

Yes. We reserve slots for urgent cases so you can get relief as quickly as possible.

Our office is located at 215 E 77th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue, near the 6 and Q trains.

Yes. Nearby options include CitiParking at 77th and 3rd, Lenox Parking at 77th and 2nd, and Icon Parking at 75th and 2nd.

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