Comparing Positive and Neutral Presentation of Epidural Steroid Injections Versus Medication for Pain from Lumbosacral Radiculopathy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy, a condition causing leg and back pain due to nerve irritation in the lower spine. This trial compares different ways of presenting epidural steroid injections ESI to patients, evaluating whether framing the treatment positively versus neutrally affects pain outcomes. The study also compares these approaches to standard medication and exercise, aiming to understand how patient expectations influence the placebo effect in pain treatments. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups one receiving a positive framing of ESI with detailed supportive information, another receiving a neutral framing of ESI with less optimistic information, and a third group receiving medications for neuropathic pain along with exercise instructions, presented in a neutral way. The framing involves reviewing slides about the treatment, with study staff available to answer questions. Subgroups are based on whether patients have unilateral or bilateral pain, affecting the type of ESI they may receive. Participants will be assessed for leg and back pain levels shortly after treatment and at 4 and 12 weeks. Researchers will measure pain reduction, disability, medication use, and patient satisfaction using various scales and questionnaires. The study includes baseline evaluations, treatment visits, and follow-ups to monitor outcomes and potential side effects. Total participation time covers at least 12 weeks, allowing detailed observation of treatment effects over time.

Procedural Framing and Epidural Steroid Injection Outcomes