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Smasch

Updated 1y ago

Has anyone had success with epidural steroid injections for lumbar herniations?

Has anyone had luck with epidural steroid injections for lumbar herniations? I have a 9mm central herniation at L4/L5 and had improvement in sciatic pain with a 5 day course of oral steroids. I was hoping this was indicative of the effectiveness of an epidural.

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House_l

2y

I found it to be very helpful.
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Jcm13

2y

I’m having the shot Monday. This is the second time that disk has been bad. I had surgery to repair it four years ago and in February it went bad again. Not sure if it’s another hernia or scar tissue so having a second mri soon with contrast. May be facing a second surgery with fixation this time. Hoping the epidural helps. I took oral steroids and got around a month of pain relief but also gained 3 pounds.
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LindaKaye

2y

I was getting the shots for a year. I didn't find them helpful.
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Babs112

2y

I gave up after the 4th injection and decided to do surgery. Been about 5 weeks post op. I can't believe I spent so many years in chronic pain.
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SherMo

2y

what did you have done?
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SherMo

2y

I’m going to get my first shot this week. L5-S1 issues with numb I toes and leg.
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blowfly

2y

this gives me hope.
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Gidgetmom

2y

I am stunned you weren't offered a nerve ablation before surgery. From my understanding surgery is ONLY AS GOOD AS THE SURGEON.
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Gidgetmom

2y

I had them in my lumbar twice. First lasted 9 weeks. My orthopedic Dr said it was too shirt. I had to beg for the 2nd one. It lasted 6 weeks. 4 mos later I had a nerve ablation. Lasted over 2 years. I had another 2 years later.
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House_l

2y

It really helped me but then I got osteoporosis and had to stop.
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KatCre

2y

They did nothing for me. I have degenerative disc disease & had a herniated disc L1S5. I had surgery in September of last year. Unfortunately most surgeons will send you through the ringer, physical therapy, injections etc. until they move to surgery. Even so, with surgery I still have pain but nothing like before. I’d say I’m about 80% better less than a year out. Advocate for yourself. If it’s not helping, make it known. It sounds promising in your case. Steroids gave me 0 relief. If you’re not doing physical therapy alongside the steroids or injections ask that your doctor order it. Good luck!
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KatCre

2y

L5S1*
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luteallady

2y

My shot lasted 6 days. I'm going straight to surgery next.

The content in this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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