How long will it take for an epidural injection to work?

Epidual 2 drugs: Usually we mix 2 drugs in an epidural solution. One is a local anesthetic that should provide some immediate relief but that will wear off in a few hours. The second medicine is a steroid which takes a day or two before decreasing the inflammation but can lasts for months. Of course the severity of the nerve impingement can dictate how long it will last.

It depens (penicillamine): Depends on the components of the injection. If it contains local anesthestetics it could take minutes. But if it contains only steroids it may take as long as a week to start feeling the effects. The components of an epidural injection depend on the indication, meaning, it depends on why the epidural injection given to a patient.

Tricky: An epidural steroid injection may provide immediate relief just after the procedure if a numbing medication is mixed with the steroid; this will wear off in 3-4 hours typically. The steroid takes 2-4 days to kick in, but some people don't notice it for over a week. You may get partial relief or it may be excellent, but come right back and another epidural may be needed.

Usually 3-4 days: However it can take up to 10-14 days in some people to get relief from an epidural steroid injection. I would consider at least a second injection if you are getting some relief. if no significant relief after 2 injections, you need to have the doctor look at other options (radio frequency) or even possibly surgery as well.