Studies have shown that when a disc has been injured, an inflammatory process follows. Chemicals that are part of this process irritate the nearby nerves.

Steroid medication is known to alter or stop the release of these irritating chemicals and even block pain signals. A new method has been developed to inject medication directly at the site of inflammation. This method, called fluoroscopy, has improved the results of injections by reducing pain, improving motion, and preventing more involved surgery.