Types and Costs of Injections for Back Pain Treatment Q&A

At Northstar Joint and Spine, under the experienced guidance of Dr. Robert Nocerini, we offer several types of injections to treat back pain, each designed to address a variety of causes for this common ailment

• Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) are a widely used treatment option. Dr. Nocerini uses these to inject corticosteroids, an anti-inflammatory medication. ESIs can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, providing temporary relief from nerve pain.

• Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections (TFESIs) are another treatment option. These target the foraminal space, through which spinal nerves exit the spinal canal. By injecting corticosteroids into this area, TFESIs aim to relieve nerve root pain caused by disc herniations or other spinal conditions.

• Selective nerve root block injections, also known as nerve block injections, are utilized by Dr. Nocerini to deliver local anesthetics and/or corticosteroids to a specific nerve root. These injections can help identify which nerve root is causing pain and provide temporary relief from the pain transmitted by these specific nerves.

• Sacroiliac Joint Injections are given to treat pain from the sacroiliac joints (the joints at the bottom of the spine, connecting the sacrum to the hip on each side). They can also reduce inflammation and pain.

• Trigger Point Injections are used to treat painful trigger points, or knots of muscle that form when muscles do not relax in areas of muscle. These injections can help alleviate back pain, especially when it’s caused by muscle tension or spasms.

At Northstar Joint and Spine, we provide specialized care for chronic back pain, including the use of back injections, also known as epidural steroid injections.

Long-Acting Injections:

• Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs): We offer ESIs that often provide pain relief for an average of 2 to 6 months.

• Facet Joint Injections: We also administer facet joint injections, which typically provide pain relief for 2 to 6 months.

Short-Acting Injections:

• Trigger Point Injections: These injections target specific muscle trigger points and usually provide relief for a few days to a few weeks.

• Nerve Blocks: We utilize nerve blocks to temporarily numb the affected nerves, providing pain relief for hours to days.

Factors Influencing Injection Duration:

• Individual patient response: The response to back injections can vary significantly from person to person. Age, overall health, and how one’s body metabolizes the medication can impact the longevity of the injection’s effect.

• Injection technique: Dr. Nocerini’s expertise ensures proper injection technique, which is crucial for maximizing the longevity of pain relief.

The cost of back pain injections at NorthStar Joint and Spine, as with any medical practice, varies significantly and depends on several factors. These include:

• Type of Injection: NorthStar Joint and Spine offers different types of injections, such as epidural steroid injections (ESIs), facet joint injections, sacroiliac joint injections, and nerve blocks. Each type of injection has varying costs.

• Complexity of the Procedure: Procedures that require more time, and resources and that use advanced imaging techniques for accurate placement, such as fluoroscopic or CT guidance, will typically be more expensive.

• Number of Injections: The severity of the pain and the response to treatment will determine the number of injections required. Multiple injections can significantly increase the overall cost.

• Provider’s Experience and Skill Level: The level of expertise and experience of the medical professional who is performing the injection, can influence the cost. A highly experienced specialist like Dr. Nocerini may charge more than a less experienced one, but their knowledge and skill level might increase the chance of a successful outcome.

• Geographical Location and Facility: The geographical location and the setting in which the injection is given, whether it’s the facility’s office or a hospital, can also impact the costs.

• Anesthesia: If general or local anesthesia is required during the injection procedure, it can add to the overall cost.

• Post-Injection Care and Rehabilitation: Additional costs can include the cost of initial consultation, follow-up visits, medication, any necessary physical therapy, or rehabilitation.

At North Star Joint and Spine, our goal is to help you manage and alleviate your pain, maximizing your quality of life. Understanding your insurance coverage for these treatments is crucial, as it greatly influences your out-of-pocket costs. The coverage for these injections depends on various factors, such as your specific insurance plan, the type of injection, and your underlying medical condition.

While most insurance companies cover these injections, the extent of coverage can vary. For instance, your insurance may cover the procedure but not the cost of the medication used. Also, the insurance coverage might be subject to your deductible, or you might be responsible for a copay. Furthermore, some insurance policies may limit the number or frequency of injections you can receive within a certain timeframe. Our team at North Star Joint and Spine can assist you in this process, providing the necessary documentation. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online now! We are conveniently located at 7704 San Jacinto Pl Suite #200 Plano, TX 75024. We offer comprehensive pain management care for patients in or near Plano, Frisco, Allen, Addison, Carrollton, Richardson, and neighboring parts of Texas.