TFESI and Neuropathic Pain in Lumbosacral Radiculopathy

Evaluation of the Effect of Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection on Neuropathic Pain Using the Neuropathic Pain Scale in Patients With Lumbosacral Radiculopathy

Patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy frequently experience neuropathic pain due to nerve root compression. Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is commonly used for pain relief in these patients. This study aims to evaluate the effect of TFESI on neuropathic pain severity using the Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy. Clinical outcomes before and after the procedure will be compared.

Lumbosacral radiculopathy is a common cause of chronic low back and leg pain and is frequently associated with neuropathic pain symptoms resulting from nerve root compression. Neuropathic pain may significantly impair quality of life and functional capacity. Transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is a minimally invasive interventional procedure widely used in the management of radicular pain.

The aim of this prospective interventional study is to evaluate the effectiveness of TFESI on neuropathic pain severity in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy. Neuropathic pain severity will be assessed using the Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS). Secondary clinical evaluations may include pain intensity and functional status assessments.

Eligible patients diagnosed with lumbosacral radiculopathy and scheduled for TFESI treatment will be enrolled in the study. Clinical assessments will be performed before the procedure and during follow-up visits after the intervention. The study findings are expected to contribute to the understanding of the effects of TFESI on neuropathic pain components in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged 18 years and older
• Patients diagnosed with lumbosacral radiculopathy based on clinical evaluation and lumbar MRI findings
• Presence of neuropathic pain symptoms associated with lumbosacral radiculopathy
• Patients scheduled to undergo transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI)
• Patients able to understand and complete the study questionnaires and scales
• Voluntary written informed consent provided

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous lumbar spinal surgery
• Cauda equina syndrome or progressive neurological deficit
• Spinal malignancy, infection, or acute vertebral fracture
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Coagulation disorders or current anticoagulant therapy contraindicating injection procedures
• Known allergy to contrast agents, local anesthetics, or corticosteroids
• Severe uncontrolled systemic disease
• Cognitive impairment preventing completion of assessment scales
• Patients unwilling to participate or unable to attend follow-up visits