Epidural Steroid Injections
in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Precision-guided spinal injections to relieve inflammation and radicular pain. Performed by Dr. Bhadresh Bhakta, fellowship-trained at Vanderbilt with decades of interventional pain experience.
Why Choose PDTC for Your ESI
Fluoroscopy-Guided Accuracy
Real-time imaging ensures the injection reaches the precise epidural location for maximum relief.
Vanderbilt Fellowship-Trained
Dr. Bhakta completed fellowship training at one of the nation's premier pain medicine programs.
Outpatient Procedure
Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours. No hospital stay required.
Insurance Accepted
ESI is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and workers' compensation.
What Is an Epidural Steroid Injection?
An epidural steroid injection (ESI) delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord and nerve roots. The goal is to reduce inflammation that causes radicular pain, pain that radiates along a nerve pathway, such as sciatica that travels down the leg.
At PDTC, Dr. Bhakta performs all epidural injections under fluoroscopic (live X-ray) guidance, ensuring the medication reaches the exact source of inflammation. This precision-guided approach improves outcomes and minimizes risk compared to blind injections.
ESIs can be performed via three approaches depending on the clinical situation: Interlaminar (medication placed between vertebrae for broader coverage), Transforaminal (a targeted "nerve block" delivered directly to a specific nerve root), and Caudal (injection through the sacral hiatus, often used for lower back and leg pain).
Conditions Treated with ESI
Epidural steroid injections are one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for nerve-related spinal pain.
Sciatica
Radiating pain from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, caused by nerve root compression.
Learn more →Lumbar Herniated Disc
Disc material pressing on spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back and extremities.
Learn more →Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves, often causing pain during standing or walking.
Learn more →Radiculopathy
Pinched nerve in the spine causing pain, tingling, or weakness that radiates to the arms or legs.
Learn more →Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related wear on spinal discs that can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Learn more →Spondylolisthesis
A vertebra slips forward over the one below it, potentially compressing nerves and causing back or leg pain.
Learn more →What to Expect During Your ESI
Consultation & Evaluation
Dr. Bhakta reviews your medical history, imaging (MRI or CT), and performs a focused physical exam to determine whether ESI is appropriate for your condition.
The Procedure (15–30 Minutes)
You'll be positioned comfortably. The injection area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopy for real-time visualization, Dr. Bhakta guides the needle to the precise epidural location and delivers the steroid medication.
Recovery & Results
You'll rest briefly in recovery and can typically go home the same day. Some patients notice improvement within days; full anti-inflammatory effects often develop over 1–2 weeks. Most patients return to normal activity within 24–48 hours.
Learn More from Trusted Medical Sources
Epidural Steroid Injections: Why Limited Dosing?
Mayo Clinic
Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI)
Cleveland Clinic
These links are provided for educational purposes. They do not constitute medical advice. Always consult Dr. Bhakta for personalized treatment recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bhadresh L. Bhakta, M.D.
Board-Certified Interventional Pain Specialist
Fellowship trained in Pain Medicine at Vanderbilt University. Board Certified for decades. Formerly served as Associate Professor at the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine. Played a pivotal role in helping establish the St. Francis Health System Pain Department. Serving Tulsa since 2000.
Full bio →