scheduled epidural

[Babebahn]

Well after my ER visit on 11/29/07, work comps utilization review has authorized a cervical epidural. They sent me that actual informational letter they sent my doctors. I found it interesting that they mentioned that the epidural is not a cure and will not heal radiculopathy or the listhesis. That it is only the pain doctors who feel that it is a temporary relief for the inflammation around the affected vertebrae.

I am thinking of going to the Mayo Clinic for a second opinion. The surgeon wrote that C7-T1 has moved from 1mm-4mm within 4 months.

Any thoughts????

[capricorn]

Oh Babe.....I will pray that all works out and you get relief. I for one have had it with the injections. Have had 12 in different body parts in the past year. They have destroyed other parts of my body, help osteoporosis along and all sorts of other problems. Please keep us updated as to whether or no t you get the shot or go to the Mayo clinic. I've said no to any further injections since I am a diabetic. Had a first visit with a chiro yesterday and I can't believe the pain in my shoulder has eased up already. I know this isn't an option for you with the fusion but do believe there is help out there. Not to get us 100% but maybe the best we can be which in some cases is still chronic >>> constant pain. I decided in 2008 I am going to get my life back. It most definitely means resigning from my job and going on disability. God be with you.

CAP

[Still in Limbo]

Babe, it is Only a Band-Aide, and May Help Your Pain for a Bit, but they are Right it Won't Cure. My Retrolethesis has Moved My Lower Spine 5mm, so I understand Your Situation, only mine is at the Bottom of the Spine. Best of Luck, and I Hope if You decide to have the Injections, they Help. I had a Total of 36 Injections Over Time, with No Relief, but I gave it a Good Try!! I Hope Mayo can Help, and again Good Luck!!

[chrischris]

Babe, Still is correct. The injections can decrease the inflamation around your spine which may or may not help with your pain. But in most cases, they are only temporary. For me, the ESI did not work, but actually increased my pain.

[AQA]

I agree with the above.

The injections did nothing for me. You may find that ( if you have it done ) other things may show up when the inflammation is reduced. Not all damage can be shown by using mri, ct scan, mylogram, x-ray, ect. ect.

Take Care

[Babebahn]

I totally agree with all of you. When I had my first epidural back in 2000 I knew then I wasn't going to work...it was as Still said a Band-Aid affect for the inevitable surgery. To quote Intracorp..."It would be reasonable to proceed with the epidural steroid injection the outcome from which will directly impact subsequent treatment recommnedations such additional surgical intervention to stabilize the C7-T1 lithesis. However, the epidural injection have no proven benefit in treating acute neck or upper back symptoms. Many pain physicians believe that diagnositc and or therapeutic injections may help patients presenting in the transitional phase between acute & chronic pain." They cited the guidelines from the American college of occupational & environmental medicine chapter 8.

So, I will do this for the "temporary relief" BUT I know full well that it will not help much!
Thank you all for your comments & support.

[1171]

you'll probably have to pay for the consult and travel yourself.

[Babebahn]

1171...I know...I will have to pay for it...I saved up the money to do it. That's why Christmas was tight this year. Work comp pay for a second opinion...not in your life, my atty's assistant told me they wouldn't pay for it!