Randomized Trialhigh evidence

No Efficacy of Dexamethasone Injections for Acute Sciatica: A Double-Blind Randomized Study Versus Saline.

European journal of pain (London, England)·September 1, 2026·PMID 42690210

Why it matters

Epidural steroid injections are commonly used for acute sciatica, but high-quality evidence on their efficacy is limited. This rigorous trial challenges the routine use of caudal dexamethasone for disc-related sciatica, suggesting that observed benefits may be largely due to natural history or placebo effects.

Infographic summary of No Efficacy of Dexamethasone Injections for Acute Sciatica: A Double-Blind Randomized Study Versus Saline.
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