Spine
Injections

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What Are Spine Injections?

Spinal injections target specific areas in or around the spine to deliver medication. Spinal injections most commonly deliver a local anesthetic, a corticosteroid, or both.

Spinal injections can have multiple functions. For example, spinal injections can be used diagnostically or therapeutically.

A diagnostically used spinal injection is more concerned with the immediate effect of pain relief and more focused on the information it provides regarding the source of pain and how to further the treatment plan.

Therapeutically used spinal injections typically provide relief that helps reduce inflammation of a compressed nerve. The relief of nerve compression can be sustained over a significant amount of time.

Injection patients typically experience other treatments beyond the injectables to further relieve pain, such as physical therapy and activity modifications.

How the Procedure Works

All spinal injections at Capital Spine and Pain Institute are performed under image guidance. Here is what to expect:

• You are positioned on the procedure table. The injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
• Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or ultrasound, the physician guides the needle to the target location.
• A contrast dye is injected first to confirm correct needle placement. The medication is only delivered once accurate positioning is verified.
• The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
• You rest briefly afterward and go home the same day. You should not drive yourself.

Most patients return to light activity within 24 hours. Strenuous exercise is avoided for 1 to 2 days.

At Capital Spine and Pain Institute, all spinal injections are performed using image guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound) to ensure accurate needle placement. Procedures are done in-office and take 15 to 30 minutes. No hospital stay is required.

Types of Spine Injections We Offer

Conditions We Treat

From common disc conditions to advanced surgical cases, our expertise covers the full
spectrum of spinal disorders.

Degenerative Spine Conditions

Age-related changes affecting discs, joints, and overall spine health.

Sciatica

Nerve pain radiating from the lower back into the leg due to compression or irritation.

Thoracic Spine Conditions

Mid-back disorders that impact posture, movement, and comfort.

Sacral Spine Conditions

Conditions affecting the base of the spine and pelvis, often linked to nerve pain or instability.

Risks and Considerations

Spinal injections are generally safe when performed by a trained specialist using image guidance. Complications are uncommon but possible. Risks include:

• Temporary soreness or increased pain at the injection site
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Headache
• Nerve irritation
• Rare risk of nerve injury

Steroid-specific side effects can include facial flushing, temporary increase in blood sugar (relevant for diabetic patients), mild nausea, and disrupted sleep for a day or two.

Some patients are not candidates for spinal injections, including those with an active infection at the injection site, a bleeding disorder, uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure, or a known allergy to contrast dye, anesthetic, or steroids. These factors are reviewed during your consultation.

Are You a Candidate?

A spine injection may be appropriate if:

• You have neck or back pain that has lasted more than a few weeks
• The pain travels into your arm or leg, or is accompanied by numbness or tingling
• Conservative treatments—physical therapy, oral medications, rest—have not provided enough relief
• Imaging shows a herniated disc, stenosis, or facet joint degeneration consistent with your symptoms
• You want to explore non-surgical options before considering spine surgery

Not everyone with back pain needs an injection. The decision is based on a full clinical evaluation. Our physicians will review your imaging and history and give you a direct recommendation—including if they believe an injection is unlikely to help.

About Capital Spine and Pain Institute

Capital Spine and Pain Institute specializes in minimally invasive treatment for spine-related pain. Our physicians are board-certified in pain management and spine care, with subspecialty training in interventional procedures.

• All injections are performed with fluoroscopy or ultrasound image guidance
• Full range of cervical and lumbar injection options available
• In-office procedures — no hospital admission required
• Individualized treatment plans based on diagnosis, imaging, and patient goals
• Focus on non-surgical management whenever clinically appropriate
• Transparent communication — we explain findings and options clearly at every visit

If you have seen multiple providers without a clear answer about what is causing your pain, a consultation at Capital Spine and Pain Institute can help clarify your diagnosis and your options.

Expert Spine Surgeon

Dr. Avery L. Buchholz is a board-certified neurosurgeon with fellowship training in complex spine surgery. With over 15 years of experience and 5,000+ procedures performed, he specializes in both minimally invasive and complex surgical techniques.

His expertise spans the full spectrum of spine care, from non-surgical interventions to advanced reconstructive procedures, always prioritizing patient safety and optimal outcomes.

Washington, DC

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