What is the inflammation of the root of a spinal nerve?

see below: A spinal nerve (root) is a large nerve bundle that leaves the spine at regular intervals, right and left. Inflammation can occur anywhere in the body. Think of a bee sting, with pain, swelling and sensitivity. Inflammation of the nerve root, causes pain close to the spine, and along the route of the nerve. Epidural steroid injections are sometimes used to place anti-inflammatories into the spine.