Functional Outcome of Caudal Epidural Block in MRI-Proven Lumbar Canal Stenosis and Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

This prospective observational study evaluates the clinical efficacy of caudal epidural steroid injections (CESI) in patients with lumbar canal stenosis (LCS) and prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD). Assessing 50 patients over a 12-month period, the study measured pain intensity via the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and functional disability via the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Straight Leg Raising (SLR) test. Results demonstrated a statistically significant (p < 0.001) and sustained improvement in pain and mobility from 24 hours post-intervention through the final follow-up. The findings support CESI as a reliable, minimally invasive non-surgical alternative, particularly for multilevel pathology.