Ultrasound Guided Spinal Injections – Reading
book nowBERKSHIRE PHYSIOTHERAPY
Ultrasound Guided Spinal Injections – Reading
Our service is focused on providing targeted, effective, and cost-efficient pain relief to help patients regain mobility, reduce symptoms, and return to normal daily activities as quickly and safely as possible. Patients can self-refer directly to this service without requiring a GP referral.
When are spinal injections recommended?
These injections are commonly used:
- to relieve severe back, neck, arm, or leg pain
- to help identify the exact source of symptoms
An up-to-date MRI scan (within the last 6 months) of the affected spinal region is required prior to treatment. If you do not already have a recent MRI scan, our team can assist in arranging one.
How do spinal injections work?
The aim is to:
- reduce inflammation
- relieve pain
- confirm whether the targeted structure is contributing to your symptoms
Immediate symptom relief following the injection can also provide important diagnostic information.
A combined treatment approach
Reducing pain through injection therapy allows patients to participate more effectively in rehabilitation and physiotherapy, which may include:
- hands-on manual therapy
- mobility and flexibility exercises
- strengthening and spinal stability programmes
This integrated approach helps optimise recovery, movement, and long-term function.
Types of spinal injections we offer
Caudal Epidural Injections
Commonly used for sciatica and leg pain caused by disc prolapse or lumbar spinal stenosis. Medication is delivered around irritated nerves to reduce inflammation and nerve irritation.
Facet Joint Injections
Target the small spinal joints responsible for movement and stability. Often used for arthritic or degenerative spinal pain affecting the neck or lower back.
Nerve Root Injections
Used for conditions such as disc prolapse and “pinched nerves,” helping reduce inflammation and pain around irritated nerve roots.
Sacroiliac Joint Injections
Designed to relieve pain arising from the sacroiliac joints, which commonly causes lower back, pelvic, or buttock pain.
Trigger Point Injections
Target painful muscular trigger points and chronic muscle tightness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back regions.
Cluneal Nerve Block
A minimally invasive procedure where local anaesthetic and sometimes corticosteroid medication are injected around the superior or middle cluneal nerves under ultrasound guidance. This treatment can help diagnose and relieve chronic lower back and buttock pain associated with cluneal nerve irritation.
Conditions we treat
- sciatica
- disc prolapse (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar)
- cervical and lumbar disc disorders
- spinal stenosis
- facet joint pain
- sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- thoracic spine pain
- costochondral pain
- chronic muscular pain syndromes
Safety of ultrasound guided injections
Benefits include:
- no radiation exposure
- real-time visualisation of nerves and soft tissues
- improved precision
- evidence-based clinical outcomes
Current research demonstrates that ultrasound-guided injections provide comparable outcomes to fluoroscopy-guided procedures while avoiding radiation exposure.
Risks and side effects
Temporary side effects may include:
- mild discomfort at the injection site
- headache
- facial flushing
- nausea or gastrointestinal upset
- temporary rise in blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
Rare complications may include:
- infection
- nerve irritation or damage
- increased pain
- muscle weakness
- dural puncture
All potential risks and benefits will be discussed with you prior to treatment.
Patient requirements
- an up-to-date MRI scan (within the last 6 months)
- completion of a medical screening and consent form
Some patients may not be suitable candidates for injections, including those with:
- uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes
- certain cardiac conditions
- infection near the injection site
- bleeding or clotting disorders
- allergies to local anaesthetic or steroid medication
What to expect on the day
During your appointment:
- a detailed clinical assessment will be completed
- an ultrasound scan may be performed
- findings and treatment options will be discussed
- the injection will be carried out if clinically appropriate
Booking your appointment
Patients can self-refer directly to our spinal injection service.
To book an appointment:
Telephone: 0118 966 8601
Email: info@berkshirephysiotherapy.co.uk
Please provide your full name, date of birth, address, and GP details when booking.
Our team will send you a screening and consent form prior to your appointment.
Why choose Berkshire Physiotherapy?
- specialist-led injection service
- advanced ultrasound guided procedures
- integrated physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- one-stop assessment and treatment approach
- rapid access appointments
- no GP referral required
