Is nerve root block done with corticosteroid?

A nerve root block places medicine near a spinal nerve that may be contributing to radiating pain. The local anaesthetic can provide short-term numbing and help the clinician assess whether that nerve is involved. A [Corticosteroid](/materials/corticosteroid/) may be added to calm inflammation around the nerve. The injection does not identify every cause of back or leg pain, and symptom relief can vary. The procedure may be guided by imaging so the needle can be positioned accurately.

Tell the treating team about allergies, diabetes, medicines that affect bleeding, infection, pregnancy, and previous reactions to injections. Follow the instructions about eating, drinking and arranging transport. Afterward, follow activity advice and monitor the injection site. Temporary numbness or weakness can affect safe walking until it settles, so ask when normal activity is appropriate. Your clinician can explain why a [Nerve Root Block](/treatments/spine-care/nerve-root-block/) was selected and what improvement would count as meaningful.

Contact the clinical team promptly for fever, increasing redness or drainage at the injection site, severe or new pain, or a headache that is persistent or worsening. Seek urgent care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, rapidly increasing leg weakness, or numbness in the saddle area. These symptoms need assessment regardless of whether corticosteroid was used.

Ask which medicines will be injected, why corticosteroid is being considered, what benefits are realistic, and what alternatives are available. Confirm how long numbness may last, which medicines to continue, and who to contact if symptoms change.