Comparative Study between Functional Outcome of Selective Nerve Root Block Vs Caudal Epidural Steroid Injection for Single Level Prolapsed Intervertebral Disc in Tertiary Health Care Centre in Chengalpattu District

Abstract

This prospective observational study compared the functional outcomes of selective nerve root block (SNRB) and caudal epidural steroid injection (CESI) in patients with single-level prolapsed intervertebral disc. Sixty patients were randomly allocated to either SNRB or CESI groups. Outcome measures included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for functional disability, and Modified MacNab criteria for overall improvement. Results showed significant improvement in both groups, but SNRB demonstrated superior functional outcomes at 6-week follow-up.