? about epidural steroid injection as an alternative

[sortamental]

Its been recommended that I try steroid injections for my back pain. However, I've had oral steriods in the past that have made me suicidal/depressed and I'm worried that I'll have the same reaction to the injections. Also, I'm reading that weight gain is an issue with injections too and I can't deal with that in my life right now. Has anyone used these for back pain relief? Can I get your personal experiences / opinions on them? Thanks!

[sortamental]

Yes, I have diagnosed degenerative disc disease, protrusion and stenosis. I do have an addiction, so I am currently trying to avoid meds.

Thanks for everyone's imput. I'm seriously considering doing it. I will talk more with new PM doctor.

[usarmymedic1]

one of the side effects of sterodal injections is that after so many the drug starts to break down soft tissues and cause permanent damage most surgions won't give more than 3 injections in the same area in a 12 month period. a corticoid steriod should help with decreasing your pain I have had 3 in my back at l5-s1 which helped me alot I was able to stay in the army for a few more years.

[lucyred68]

i had it twice in my back.  they really helped and it was long lasting.  i have also had them in my hip.  it lasted for 4 years before the pain came back.  no weight gain from them either.  very little gets into your bloodstream as it is in a gel form that stays in the area into wich it is injected and relieves the inflamation and swelling that pinches the nerves off.  i am considering it again as  i no longer want to be on pain meds of any kind.  they are not permenant but for me they lasted 2 to 4 years, so it is worth it.  i would have had it done sooner, but i was without insurance for 12 years.  that is when i got hooked on pain meds to relieve the pain.  

Lucy

[worried878]

I have gotten steroid injections that coused me to gain weight..I changed docs years ago and he said it depends on the type they use...the cheaper stuff has more side effects...anyway, i get them in my neck and shoulder every 4 months with no weight gain...it is given into the muscle and very little is absorbed into the blood stream..I asked my pain doc extensively about it...now oral steroids do make me gain weight and many complain of irritabilty while on them

[JayDiddy]

Hi there,

I have had chronic pain from herniating every disc in my neck and having C:3-4 & C:6-7 fused. After the fusions I had a pain free period but was rear ended (twice in an 11 month period) and the pain became unbearable.

I elected to have these injections and it made a huge positive difference for me. DO YOU HAVE A DIAGNOSED PROBLEM? OR JUST GENERAL PAIN IN THAT REGION?

The mistake I made with the pain doc was to get on OXYCONTIN on a daily basis. Long story but it really messed up my life!!! It is a very dangerous drug and I don't know if you have experience or problems with pain meds but please be careful & read   up if you have not taken it and are considering it.

Best of luck to you.
Jay

[poetrygirl1960]

I wouldn't worry about gaining weight from injections, oral use is another story.  I had this procedure done a few weeks ago and it didn't help but it didn't hurt at all either.  I think it's worth trying.

Lisa

[what2donow]

I too, have had these injections.I didnt have many bad side effects.I was sore afterwards for a day or so but other than that I didnt have any issues.I also didnt have any releife.I had 6 in a 10 week period and didnt feel 1 bit off difference.Just weigh out the good and the bad and take it from there.I would also do what asis said and talk to ur Dr.He is there to help and im sure wants too :)

[Firefaery1023]

I had an epidural in my neck and it didn't help, but I definately did not have any weight gain.  I have been on oral steroids in the past and have experienced the same side effects that you have.  My new pain management doctor that diagnosed me with fibromyalgia wants to try it again.  Some people have a lot of relief from them so I am going to have it done again next Tuesday.  I will let you know how it goes.  Hope that this helps.

[avisg]

I know a lot of people that have gotten a lot of relief with them .You do need to sit down with the doctor and let him know about your reaction to oral steroids ..... He should be able to advise you about that

[BornTwoRiff]

I had a L5-S1 heniated disc and they wanted to do the injection. Told me it may take 3-4 to get relief. Thats been a while back but the very first one worked. It was God send and I think the meds are in you so short of time you dont have to worry about the weight gain like in oral cortisone. Oral or long term injections IM can give you cushing sydrome as well. You dont have to worry about that with 1 shot in your back. I think it may keep you from having you take meds for your back if you are on them. Everyone is different so take advise from several here.. Good Luck..