Epidural steroids for back and leg pain: mechanism of action and efficacy.

Epidural injections of glucocorticoids may help some patients with back and leg pain. The efficacy of this therapy has not been conclusively proved; however, when weighed against the risks, cost, and outcomes of spinal surgery, epidural glucocorticoids are a reasonable alternative in selected patients whose back and leg pain is functionally limiting. We review the rationale, available data, techniques, and indications for these injections.