ID:16032 Trigger Points Accompanying Cervical Transforaminal Stenosis: A Hidden Cause of Remaining Pain Post TFESI

Abstract

Cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) is considered one of the most effective treatments for radicular pain induced by cervical foraminal stenosis. Studies have shown in 80% of patients who were surgical candidates, following TFESI, surgery was avoided. (1) The failure was mostly related to intensity of symptoms and history of previous episode of cervical radiculopathy. At the same time, it is well known that regional, persistent pain results in decreased range of motion in the affected and adjacent muscles which include muscles used to maintain body posture, such as those in the neck and shoulders.