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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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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
Mon, 29 Apr 2013
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Neurologist 's  Response
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
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Have Backache, Leg Pain, Taking Epidural Injections For L4, L5 Impingement, Recent Injections Less Effective. Alternate?

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