Back problems update

Rocco1943 · Aug 19, 2016

A couple months ago I asked you guys for advice with a pinched nerve at L4 & L5. After several trips to the Chiro and an injection in the office, I opted for a nerve block under "twilight sleep". The first one worked about 80% and I waited 2 weeks and had it done again. SO FAR, it's done really great. It's been one week since the 2nd one and hopefully it will continue.

I don't like seeing people bring a problem to a forum and not giving any updates either good or bad. Thanks for everyones advice and contributions. That's what makes this one of the best boards out there.

RetiredArmy0513 · Aug 19, 2016

I'm getting a cortisone shot on the 25th... Same place as you... Lower back right side... I've had a few before they last between 6-9 months for me so I get one every year... Doc says eventually I will have to have a spinal fusion but not in the immediate future

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Rocco1943 · Aug 20, 2016

Are you getting yours done in the office or at an outpatient surgery facility?

MooseKnuckles · Aug 20, 2016

I tried one injection at L4/L5 in Jan, and 1 more in March, but they didn't do much so I eventually had L4/L5 microdiscectomy in May and man I am glad I did I feel great, the Doc said the disc herniation was pretty large and was causing all the pain.

I couldn't handle the pain any longer and was taking alot of pain medication to get through the day.

Gravyv · Aug 20, 2016

I've never heard of a nerve block injection. Is it a relatively minor procedure in office and you can leave on your own afterwards?

I've been getting trigger point shots in my lower back (one of each side) every couple of months and they seem to be helping a little. Occasionally I'll also get a epidural cortisone shot but I try to avoid getting more than 1 a year since it may cause some damage to the area.

My pains manageable but I can't do squats, deads, or much freeweights without really feeling it the next day. So I just completely avoid them now to avoid further damage. It'll be nice to be able to do them again though. I'm not sure if it'll be possible without surgery.