TFESI (Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection)

A transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is a targeted treatment for nerve root pain — commonly sciatica or similar radiating arm or leg pain — that delivers anti-inflammatory medication precisely to the specific nerve root thought to be causing your symptoms. By entering through the small natural opening (foramen) where the nerve root exits the spine, this approach allows very focused delivery compared with less targeted epidural techniques.

The injection is performed under X-ray guidance, with contrast dye used to confirm the needle is correctly positioned alongside the nerve root before a combination of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid is delivered. This precision makes TESI a particularly useful option when imaging has identified a specific disc herniation or area of nerve root compression correlating with your pain pattern.

Many patients experience worthwhile relief of radiating leg or arm pain within one to two weeks, which can create a valuable opportunity to progress with physiotherapy and return to normal activity more comfortably. As with other epidural injections, the degree and duration of benefit vary between individuals, and Dr Danesh will advise whether further injections or other treatments are appropriate based on your response.