Interventional pain management, specifically an epidural injection, is a medical procedure used to relieve radiculopathy and pain in the neck and lower back. This treatment involves injecting medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord, which is an area that surrounds the spinal nerves. The goal is to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the affected areas.

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For the neck, the procedure targets the cervical spine, and for the lower back, it focuses on the lumbar spine. The cervical spine is the part of the spine in the neck region, while the lumbar spine is in the lower back.

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During the procedure, the patient is positioned carefully, and a local anesthetic may be used to numb the area where the injection will be given. A special X-ray, called fluoroscopy, may be used to guide the needle to the precise location for the injection.

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The medication injected typically includes a combination of a local anesthetic, which numbs the nerves temporarily, and a steroid, which helps reduce inflammation. By targeting the source of pain directly, epidural injections can provide relief for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other conditions causing nerve irritation and inflammation.

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It's essential to note that while epidural injections can be effective in managing pain, they are not a permanent solution. The duration of pain relief varies from person to person, and the injections may need to be repeated for ongoing pain management. Patients should always discuss the procedure with their healthcare provider to make informed decisions about their treatment plan.