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.
Real-time imaging ensures the injection reaches the precise epidural location for maximum relief.
Dr. Bhakta completed fellowship training at one of the nation's premier pain medicine programs.
Most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours. No hospital stay required.
ESI is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and workers' compensation.
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).
Epidural steroid injections are one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for nerve-related spinal pain.
Radiating pain from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, caused by nerve root compression.
Learn more →Disc material pressing on spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back and extremities.
Learn more →Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves, often causing pain during standing or walking.
Learn more →Pinched nerve in the spine causing pain, tingling, or weakness that radiates to the arms or legs.
Learn more →Age-related wear on spinal discs that can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Learn more →A vertebra slips forward over the one below it, potentially compressing nerves and causing back or leg pain.
Learn more →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.
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.
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.
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 →