Spinal Cortisone Shot

[marly1956]

I am going to have a cortisone shot along my spinal cord to help with severe pain in back. I have had now 3 of them. The last one was in Dec.07 however it did not take, not sure why. I have gotten to the point that I definetly need it again in hopes that my back will not be as painful. I know I can't be pain free with 4 pinched nerves in my back and Back Surgery (we won't go there) I refuse to have. Two family members had it done only to leave them in pain ever since. I feel since this is the organ that holds us up, I don't want to be knocked down. No pun intended.
Has anyone on this sight ever had cortisone shots that for some reason or another didn't work. I know that the one prior to the .07 one seemed to help. Any comments would be greatly appreciated on this topic or back surgery. Was it successful or do you wish now that you hadn't had it done?
Thanks friends, I appreciate your comments.

[kay290]

Are you talking about an Epidural Cortisone injection? If so, the success rate is controversial-about 50% success rate with alot of possible complications.

[marly1956]

Well the shot went well. Second day being the worst of the pain. Time will tell if this works for me. Have had 3 previousiously, first 2 worked but the 3rd I think I overdid it prior to letting things settle. So we will see what happens. I spoke to the neurosurgeon and he told me it is basically relief from arthritis not to prevent pain from pinched nerves. Certainly don't want back surgery so if all else fails, I will have to continue with meds. As I'm writing my right leg has gone to pins and needles.
Take care and thanks for your input and the good luck!

[CHELLETO6DOGS]

I had several that didn't work. i can't take pain medication. i wished i could be more of a help. just thought i would let you know they didn't work for me  good luck
michelle