When is a caudal epidural recommended?
A caudal epidural may help when sciatica, spinal stenosis or disc-related nerve irritation causes persistent lower-back or leg pain that has not settled with physiotherapy and medication. It can both treat pain and help confirm the diagnosis — a positive response tells us precisely which structures are involved.
Conditions it treats
- Sciatica
- Spinal stenosis
- Disc herniation
- Nerve root irritation
- Chronic lower-back pain
- Post-surgical scarring
What happens on the day
BEFORE
You can eat and drink normally unless sedation is planned. Arrive 30 minutes early; the team will confirm consent and answer questions.
DURING
Lying face-down, the skin is numbed. Under X-ray guidance a fine needle is placed through the sacral hiatus and the medication is delivered around the affected nerves. Most patients describe pressure rather than pain.
AFTER
You rest for 30–60 minutes before going home the same day with a companion. Mild soreness for a day or two is normal; relief typically builds over 2–10 days.
Benefits
- No surgical incision — walk out the same day
- Targeted relief where tablets cannot reach
- Diagnostic value for planning next steps
- Can be repeated when clinically appropriate
Considerations
- Relief varies between patients and is not guaranteed
- Temporary numbness or soreness at the site
- Small risk of infection or dural puncture
- Discussed openly with you before consent