Epidural Steroid Injections
in San Antonio and Schertz, TX
Living with chronic back pain, sciatica, or nerve pain can make everyday activities feel impossible. At ReleviiMed, Dr. Manuel Ybarra offers epidural steroid injections (ESI) as a proven, minimally invasive treatment to reduce inflammation and provide lasting relief. Our state-of-the-art facilities in San Antonio and Schertz, TX are equipped with cutting-edge imaging technology to ensure precision and safety with every procedure.
If conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications haven't provided the relief you need, an epidural steroid injection may be the solution to help you get back to the life you love.
What Is An Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection delivers a powerful combination of corticosteroid medication and local anesthetic directly into the epidural space—the area surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. This targeted approach reduces inflammation at the source of your pain, providing relief that can last from several weeks to several months.
ESI is both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. It helps Dr. Ybarra identify the exact source of your pain while simultaneously providing relief. This dual purpose makes epidural injections one of the most valuable procedures in interventional pain management.
How ESI Works
When spinal nerves become compressed or irritated—whether from a herniated disc, bone spur, or narrowed spinal canal—inflammation develops around the nerve root. This inflammation causes pain, numbness, and weakness that can radiate down your arms or legs.
The corticosteroid medication in an epidural injection:
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Reduces inflammation around compressed nerves
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Decreases swelling in the epidural space
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Interrupts pain signals being sent to the brain
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Promotes healing by creating a less inflammatory environment
What Conditions Does An Epidural Steroid Injection Address?
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Sciatica (pain radiating from the lower back down the leg)
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Herniated or bulging discs
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Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
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Degenerative disc disease
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Radiculopathy (nerve pain caused by compressed spinal nerves)
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Spondylolisthesis (slippage of a vertebra)
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Facet joint arthritis
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Chronic lower back pain
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Cervical pain (pain in the neck and upper spine)
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Post-surgical back pain or failed back surgery syndrome
Conditions Treated with Epidural Steroid Injections
Dr. Ybarra uses ESI to treat a wide range of spinal conditions affecting the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions:
Herniated or
Bulging Discs
When the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, it can press on nearby nerves and cause significant pain. ESI reduces the inflammation around the affected nerve root, providing relief while your body heals.
Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in your body—becomes compressed or irritated. This causes pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from your lower back through your buttock and down your leg. Epidural injections target the nerve root compression that causes sciatica symptoms.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. ESI helps manage the pain and inflammation associated with this condition, often allowing patients to avoid or delay surgery.
Dr. Ybarra's Approach to ESI
What sets ReleviiMed apart is Dr. Manuel Ybarra's elite training and patient-centered philosophy.
Fellowship-Trained Expertise
Dr. Ybarra completed his Interventional Pain Medicine Fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago—one of the nation's top-ranked medical centers. He is double board-certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.
Award-Winning Compassionate Care
Dr. Ybarra received the prestigious Kaitlin Selmeczi, M.D. Award at Rush University, recognizing physicians who exemplify humanism, devotion, and compassion in patient care.
20+ Years of Experience
With over two decades in pain management—including 13 years as Assistant Professor at UT Health San Antonio—Dr. Ybarra has performed thousands of epidural injections and established long-term relationships with patients spanning 8+ years.
Progressive Treatment Philosophy
Dr. Ybarra believes in starting with conservative approaches and progressing to more advanced interventions only when needed. His goal is to help you avoid surgery whenever possible while achieving meaningful pain relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an epidural steroid injection last?
Pain relief from an ESI typically lasts anywhere from several weeks to several months. Some patients experience relief for 3-6 months or longer. The duration varies based on your specific condition, the severity of inflammation, and how your body responds to the medication. Many patients find that combining ESI with physical therapy extends their relief.
Is an epidural steroid injection painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Dr. Ybarra uses local anesthetic to numb the injection site before the epidural needle is placed. You may feel pressure or a brief pinch. For patients with anxiety about the procedure, ReleviiMed offers conscious sedation—a unique service that most pain clinics don't provide.
How soon can I return to normal activities after ESI?
Most patients can resume normal daily activities within 24-48 hours. We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting for 2-3 days. Many patients return to work the next day, depending on their job requirements. Dr. Ybarra will provide specific guidance based on your procedure and condition.