Hey everyone,

Is it true that the 2nd lasts longer? Im getting one right before i go to my freshman year of college and i'm hoping it will get me through most of the semester, maybe that's pushin' it though.

I have DDD in my L5/S1 level and slightly in my L4/L5. I'm 18 and mypain has basically gotten worse and worse since october. I got my first steriod injection (epidural) a few months ago and got great results...for a little while (2-3 weeks of solid relief, then back to the usual)


also, i have been swimming lately, and i actually think it is helping with back pain. i love it, and it's definately worth a try if you want alow impact workout. thanks a lot

hoyt::p

Hello -
I agree that swimming is a fantastic exercise for back pain people. Of course, some report bad results but if your pain is weaght-bearing induced, the water will be your friend. I adore it and firmly believe I was never meant to walk upright on land in the first place! It is hazardous.
Epidurals? Well, you'll hear that MANY people have fantastic results and the 2nd shot works better and the 3rd maybe even better. My MIL has had her 2nd and it is helping quite a lot. BUT others don't have such good luck and I think it really depends on the underlying cause of the pain and the skill of the doctor, obviously. Be hopeful but don't sign up for any triathalons on the assumption that it will work that way. All 4 of mine were duds!
Best of luck - Suzy-Q

Epidurals are my lifesaver. I live for them. I have them every six months and I have to agree that the second does last longer. I have them in series of 3's and I am usually ok for the 6 months after that. As for swimming, I think that each individual had different results. I swim everyday in the summer and feel much better during that time. I go to aqua therapy for 6 weeks during the fall and 6 weeks in the winter. I get great results from the water. I was told by my surgeon that I should do more doggie paddling than actual swimming and the walking is great for low impact therapy. Hopefully your epidural will work wonders for you. If you have a YMCA or access to an indoor heated pool, give it a shot during the winter....it can't hurt to try. Good Luck!!! Keep Smiling!!!

Tammy

Hello Hoyt,

I've had two sets of three injections over the past couple years. The second time it started to leak. Very much itchy in the area of the injection. My Pain Mgmnt. Dr said that wasn't possible. Upon further research, I found that it does! The trick to it is to draw a vile of your own blood before surgery, then inject it into the area after the Epidural. That way you body will seal up the wound itself.
My epidurals worked some-what!~ I haven't been back for any others.

Oh, and swimming is the best!!!

Take care!
Ed:wave: