I have cronic lower back pain that has been diagnosed by a spinal physician. I will need surgery to
fuse my back for pain relief. However, I am trying to put that off for as long as I can. I am 33 years old and my back "problems" have effected my lifestyle dramatically. I can no longer work out, bikeride, play with the kids, and everytime I clean the house I know I am going to be hurting worse because of it. I have annualar tears in L1-5 with minor cuvriture of the spine. I decided to see a pain management Dr. with a great reputation and received my first epidural steriod shot. I am scheduled for another one 7 days after the first.
Since the shot I have been having headaches, nausea, pain radiating to all extremities, trouble sleeping, numbness in my buttocks and pain searing down my legs. I have tried numerous things to releave these symptoms. Over the counter pain relievers do not work, alternating heat and ice on my back, massage & yoga. I am at my wits end. I want to get better but am affraid to get another shot if it is going to make me sicker than I am now. Spinal fusion seems so drastic. Does anybody have any other ideas...
Anyone who has had complications after an invasive procedure (involves needles and knives) should immediately talk to the doctor who did the procedure. Infection is the biggest concern and would require immediate attention.
Deciding to have surgery is a very personal choice which hinges on quality of life. Surgery can always make matters worse. Those who are in poor health (smokers, diabetics, obese) have the worst chances. Still, predicting the outcome is very difficult. When it comes to fusion, a surgeon once said that if a potential fusion candidate does well in a rigid back brace, then the surgery will probably help.
I have never come across a back patient who cannot do any exercises (even those with the worst curves--scoliosis). The key is learning the right exercises with a physical therapist who specializes in spine stabilization. My favorite exercise book is called "Spine Stabilization" and is available on www.optp.com. I list more books on my website, www.gvbacks.com.
Zero gravity chair, back brace, and a whole lot of the right exercises are the best way to avoid a fusion.
Dr. Christina Lasich, MD
- Report Abuse
- Was this helpful? Yes
