Man holding the back of his neck in pain

Pain management

Targeted relief

Consultant-delivered interventions to help manage acute and chronic pain.

What are pain management injections?

Steroid injections into the spine can help relieve pain and inflammation in the back and joints. These injections typically contain a combination of corticosteroid medication and local anaesthetic to provide short-term pain relief and improve mobility.

The procedure is commonly used to help patients become more active during recovery and rehabilitation, particularly when back pain is limiting daily activities. The treatment itself usually takes around 20 minutes.

Why you might need treatment

Back pain and related conditions can have a significant impact on quality of life. Symptoms may interfere with: exercise and sports, driving, working at a computer, playing with children or family, day-to-day mobility.

Sciatica — pain that travels down the leg from the lower back. It is one of the most common conditions treated with epidural or facet joint injections.

Facet joint pain specifically is caused by inflammation, degeneration, or damage to the small joints that connect the bones of the spine. Sitting for prolonged periods often worsens symptoms.

Before treatment

Patients usually attend an initial consultation where medical history, symptoms, and any scans or tests are reviewed. The injection is generally performed under local anaesthetic.

The procedure

Ultrasound guidance helps position the needle accurately.

The procedure is minimally invasive and usually completed in less than 20 minutes. Patients are monitored briefly afterwards before going home.

Recovery and results

Pain relief may last from a few weeks to several months depending on the individual and the underlying condition. Some patients experience temporary soreness or mild discomfort after the injection, but most can return home the same day and resume light activities shortly afterwards.

Potential benefits

Reduced inflammation. Temporary pain relief. Improved mobility. Better participation in physiotherapy or rehabilitation. Reduced nerve irritation in some cases.

Facet joint injections may also help identify the exact source of pain before further treatment is considered.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book?

Appointments are usually available within two weeks. Please reach out to our team by calling 01 726 7500 or emailing info@surgicalinstitute.ie and we will get you booked in for your preferred time and date.

Are your treatments covered by insurance?

Surgical Institute Dublin is recognised by all the major Irish health insurers: Vhi, Irish Life Health, Laya Healthcare, Level Health, St Paul’s Garda Medical Aid Society and POMAS. Most procedures are covered, subject to your plan, and some need pre-approval, which our team can help with. Consultations are charged on a self-pay basis, but you may be able to reclaim part of the cost under your outpatient benefits. Please check your level of cover with your insurer before your appointment.

Can I reschedule or cancel my appointment?

Yes. Please let us know at least 48 hours before your appointment by calling 01 726 7500 or emailing info@surgicalinstitute.ie, and we will find a time that suits you. For mole mapping, your €50 deposit is refunded if you cancel at least 48 hours in advance.

Do you offer telehealth consultations?

No. All consultations at Surgical Institute Dublin take place in person, so your consultant can examine you properly and, where appropriate, treat you at the same visit. If you’re unsure whether you need an appointment, call our team on 01 726 7500 and we’ll guide you to the right service.

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Centre of excellence

The Surgical Institute Dublin team

Every consultation, procedure, and follow-up at Surgical Institute Dublin is delivered by a specialist consultant.

Patient reviews


  • Surgical Institute Dublin is a very professional organisation providing excellent care in a purpose built facility. I was particularly impressed with the ‘See and Treat‘ consultation process and the exceptional people I encountered there!

    Ciaran Donnellan

  • Fantastic service from start to finish. Was able to book and be seen in short order, which is a rarity in Irish healthcare! Staff were very friendly and welcoming. Overall top quality experience.

    Paul Benson

  • Would highly recommend the new Surgical Institute Dublin! I was very worried about a skin lesion on my head and was amazed at how quickly they got me in for an appointment. The facility is completely modern and state-of-the-art. One of the best facilities in Europe!

    It was incredibly convenient to be able to see a top dermatologist and a plastic surgeon all in the same visit. Fantastic, efficient care.

    Conor Doyle

  • Excellent experience. Very accessible, staff excellent and I was able to get treated straight away after my consultation.

    Andrew Lynam

  • Very easy process from booking to consultation and procedure. Lovely staff, professional and efficient service. Clean and modern facilities. Couldn’t fault the place.

    Brendan Power

  • This see-and-treat service is absolutely fantastic! I was very impressed with the whole experience. Dr Jennifer Boggs and Dr Serena Martin were both kind, lovely and highly professional. I had my full body mole check and a small procedure done in one visit. The service was incredibly efficient. Such a great time saver! All the staff were friendly, smiling and welcoming! Highly recommend!

    Marie Caroline Berthelin

Insights from our specialists