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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest An Alternative Medication For Back Pain Apart From Cortisone Shot

I have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis and L5-S1 Spondolithesis after having an MRI of Spine. Dr. wants to preform a series of Epidural Injections. He said there was a 50% chance of improvement in pain as best result and worse case scenario could be paralysis or death! I don t feel comfortable with these odds. Of note I did have a Cortisone shot in my arm for a different injury and I felt very sick and nausea after for about a month. My arm did not improve. What other recommendations might you have for treating my back injury without injection? Thank you and I await your answer! Sincerely, Eva
Mon, 27 Jun 2016
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Neurologist, Surgical,  's  Response
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

You can try physical therapy ( traction lumbosacral exercises ) and NSAID drugs that also may improve your pain.

Epidural injections may have some risks, but death it is a little exaggerated I think.

However, definitive treatment about spondylolysthesis is spine stabilization surgery.

I think you should get evaluated by a Neurosurgeon or a spine Surgeon in order to get a correct understanding of your condition and treatment.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Greetings.
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Suggest An Alternative Medication For Back Pain Apart From Cortisone Shot

Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. You can try physical therapy ( traction lumbosacral exercises ) and NSAID drugs that also may improve your pain. Epidural injections may have some risks, but death it is a little exaggerated I think. However, definitive treatment about spondylolysthesis is spine stabilization surgery. I think you should get evaluated by a Neurosurgeon or a spine Surgeon in order to get a correct understanding of your condition and treatment. Hope you found the answer helpful. Greetings.