Sacral nerve root injection

Spinal injection for pain management

A sacral nerve root injection can block painful impulses sent from irritated nerves at the base of your spine (sacrum)

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About nerve root injections to the base of the spine

The sacral nerve is part of the sacral plexus, a network of nerve fibres that supply the skin and muscles of the pelvis and lower limb. The network is located on the surface of the posterior pelvic wall and the anterior to the piriformis muscle. 

If you have persistent back, hip or limb pain, your consultant may recommend a spinal injection to help manage the pain or pinpoint its source.

Spinal injections, such as sacral nerve blocks, can reduce inflammation and numb painful nerve signals, such as tingling, helping to manage spinal pain and associated pain radiating into your limbs.

Need to know

  • What happens during your injection? icon plus

    Treatment is usually done under local anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be awake during the injection but the area will be numbed. You may also be given sedation to help you relax.

    You'll be asked to lie on your stomach while a hollow needed is inserted into your lower back, near the sacral nerve root. Your consultant will use an X-ray along with a nerve stimulator to help position the needle in the right location. Then a steroid solution, sometimes along with more local anaesthetic, is injected to reduce inflammation and numb the nerves.

    The procedure usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

  • How to prepare icon plus

    Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. They will let you know what you need to do to prepare. It's important to tell them about any medications you're currently taking. You'll also need to arrange for someone to help you get home after your appointment, as you shouldn't drive immediately following the procedure. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

  • After your injection icon plus

    After the procedure, your consultant will help you to stand. Once you're up and moving, any weakness or numbness in your legs should begin to go away.

    You'll be able to go home once you're feeling well and able to walk. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise.

Our nerve specialist consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, including orthopaedics, spinal and pain management, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

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From complex spinal surgery to diagnostic tests and minor minimally invasive procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Private sacral nerve root injections in Birmingham

Private sacral nerve root injections in Manchester

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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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