Erector spinae injection
Erector-spinae pain: assessment first
At a glance
A quick look at the key figures
Procedure time
About 30-50 minutes
Treatment approach
Non-surgical
Treatment interval
Usually recommended once or twice a week
The erector spinae muscles run along both sides of the spine and help support it. When these muscles weaken or tighten, spinal alignment may change and back, shoulder, or neck pain can follow. Long periods looking at a computer or phone can increase their tension. When neck pain is not due to a disc problem, the clinic considers these muscles.
Without steroids
Steroids are commonly used to ease pain, but the clinic describes a steroid-free approach here because of concerns about long-term use. The aim is to support the body’s recovery and address pain over time rather than only provide temporary relief. A fine needle is used to limit injection discomfort.
Alongside manual therapy
The clinic combines manual therapy for erector spinae pain, improving muscle and joint function to support rehabilitation.
A home skyward stretch
Looking upward counters a posture spent looking downward and may help relax the erector spinae. The clinic recommends six 10-second repetitions, three times a day, and says this simple exercise may reduce the number of clinic visits.
Treatment outcomes vary by person.
Considering an erector spinae injection
Review the painful area and current condition to discuss whether an injection is suitable.
Assessing underlying factors
The assessment considers posture and musculoskeletal factors that may contribute to pain, beyond symptom relief alone.
Reducing recurrence
Care also includes exercise guidance to help maintain posture after correction.
Coordinated care
The medical director, an anesthesiology and pain medicine specialist, assesses first, considering skin and pain concerns as part of the same care plan.
Reviewing back and neck pain
Review recurring pain and its relationship to posture and movement.
People with persistent back or neck pain
People with recurring pain related to posture imbalance
FAQ
01 Are erector spinae injections painful?
We use the thinnest needle so you feel very little pain.
02 If not steroids, what do erector spinae injections use?
Dr. Anapa treats without steroids. Whether an injection is needed and which medication to use are decided at consultation.
03 Is one erector spinae injection enough?
It is not a one-time treatment. Keeping to the schedule helps prevent recurrence, and combining it with manual therapy is important for erector spinae pain.
Aftercare guidance
Four ways to support recovery.
Avoid strenuous activity on treatment day
Rest on treatment day and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Review posture habits together
If the posture linked to your pain continues, improvement may not last. Follow the posture and exercise guidance given at your visit.
Contact the clinic if pain worsens
Contact the clinic if pain worsens or you develop numbness or a feeling of heat after treatment.
Follow the recommended visit schedule
This care may take more than one visit. Follow the schedule discussed with your clinician.
When it hurts, Dr. Anapa
Face or pain, we start by finding out why. Book by phone or online.