I can add a bit more regarding epidural injections. Which may or may not be different than what you are receiving location-wise. My first one was done in a hospital. The nurse told me the shot was 'prednisone based'. Yes, it hurt like hell -about an 8 or 9 on MY pain scale (I ain't never had a baby!). But it only hurt for about 5 seconds and then it was over.
My subsequent cortisone shots, same location, were done in a 'Pain Management' facility. This guy has a waiting room chuck full of patients. You play musical chairs approaching his inner sanctum where he does the injections with an xray machine hanging over you, bout 5 minutes per patient. Pain is about a 3 or 4 and lasts about 2 seconds. (the more my back has been bothering me the worse the shot will hurt).
So what's the difference? Maybe the thickness/consistency of the medicine? Maybe the skill of the doctor?
I travel 30 miles to get the shot. They insist on a chauffeur. Another pain management place is opening right in my town. No way I am letting any other guy but him put needles into my back!