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Have Backache, Leg Pain, Taking Epidural Injections For L4, L5 Impingement, Recent Injections Less Effective. Alternate?
Hello Doctor:
For L4 and L5 nerve impingement I've received a succession of 5 epidural steroid injections over the past 2 years.
The most recent 2 epidurals have been less effective, tha\n previous injections. I am 78 y.o., 5'9", 125 lbs. and
experience backache and leg pain daily and swim or walk amap.
I am interested in alternatives to the spinal injections treatment, but not necessarily surgery.
Thank you for your attention,
Polly
For L4 and L5 nerve impingement I've received a succession of 5 epidural steroid injections over the past 2 years.
The most recent 2 epidurals have been less effective, tha\n previous injections. I am 78 y.o., 5'9", 125 lbs. and
experience backache and leg pain daily and swim or walk amap.
I am interested in alternatives to the spinal injections treatment, but not necessarily surgery.
Thank you for your attention,
Polly
posted on
Thu, 25 Apr 2013
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Sat, 27 Apr 2013
Answered on
Mon, 29 Apr 2013
Last reviewed on
Hi,
It seems that you have disc prolapse which impinge on L4 and L5 roots which is producing these symptoms
There are numerous nonoperative treatment modalities. Most encompass a
combination of bed rest, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medication.
Analgesics or muscle relaxants can sometimes help relieve pain.
The most commonly prescribed drug therapy involves NSAIDS (non steroidal anti
inflammatory drugs). These reduce inflammation that may be the causative
factor underlying nerve root pain. Proper exercise can also help prevent back
problems and is included in many treatment regimes. A physical therapist or
chiropractor can work to create an individualized exercise plan to best suit
each patient.
You also need to reduce your weight and also use lumbosacral belt and avoid lifting heavy weight.Hope this will help you
It seems that you have disc prolapse which impinge on L4 and L5 roots which is producing these symptoms
There are numerous nonoperative treatment modalities. Most encompass a
combination of bed rest, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and medication.
Analgesics or muscle relaxants can sometimes help relieve pain.
The most commonly prescribed drug therapy involves NSAIDS (non steroidal anti
inflammatory drugs). These reduce inflammation that may be the causative
factor underlying nerve root pain. Proper exercise can also help prevent back
problems and is included in many treatment regimes. A physical therapist or
chiropractor can work to create an individualized exercise plan to best suit
each patient.
You also need to reduce your weight and also use lumbosacral belt and avoid lifting heavy weight.Hope this will help you
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