Understanding Spinal Steroid Injections

Spinal steroid injections, often referred to as epidural injections, are commonly used to alleviate pain associated with conditions like spinal stenosis, particularly in adults aged 60 and older. Spinal stenosis is characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can lead to chronic discomfort and numbness in the neck and lower back.

Recent Findings from the American Academy of Neurology

A recent review conducted by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) analyzed multiple studies surrounding the impact of spinal steroid injections. The findings suggest that while these injections might provide temporary relief, their benefits tend to diminish within a few months.

• Approximately 26% of patients receiving spinal steroid injections reported reduced disability after three months compared to those who did not.
• Short-term pain relief was noted in 24% of patients for a duration of two to six weeks.
• No significant improvement was observed in overall function, nor was there a decrease in the need for surgery.

Insights on Specific Conditions

Notably, many of the studies reviewed by the AAN focused primarily on lower back pain. The efficacy of spinal steroid injections for treating cervical radiculopathy, which involves a pinched nerve in the neck, remains less clear.

Expert Opinions

Dr. Carmel Armon, a neurologist at Loma Linda University and co-author of the AAN review, stated, “Contrary to the individual impression many patients experience pertaining to immediate alleviation of pain, once one looks at the 3- and 6-month mark, most patients would be in the same place they would be if they received the control treatment, without steroids.”

Dr. Mark Bicket, an anesthesiologist and director of pain and opioid research at Michigan Medicine, emphasizes the importance of discussing these findings with healthcare providers for informed treatment decisions. He also suggests that combining acupuncture with epidural injections may benefit some patients dealing with lower back pain.

Alternative Pain Management Strategies

For chronic back pain relief, certain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants can alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, surgical options that involve the removal of parts of a disc or vertebra may be necessary to relieve pressure on nerve roots.

Conclusion

This review highlights that while spinal steroid injections can offer short-term relief from neck and back pain, their effectiveness typically declines after several months. Individuals experiencing such pain are encouraged to have open discussions with their healthcare providers regarding all treatment options available to them.