KeithEugeneW
02-01-2003, 02:12 PM
I go in on Feb 13th, and again twice more in March to have the cervical epidural nerve block shots for 2 severely degenerated disks in my neck. I've read a lot about it, and understand what the doctor is going to do, but how much is this going to hurt?
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PsychLea
02-02-2003, 12:38 AM
Keith,
Good question! I am also looking at that option too. My NS said that the pain doc they use gives heavy sedation, because they don't want me pulling my neck away at the wrong time!
I have had spinal taps before and it is painful, but they do numb the area first with "bee sting" sticking sensations.
I am also interested in others experiences.
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God bless,
Lea
Good question! I am also looking at that option too. My NS said that the pain doc they use gives heavy sedation, because they don't want me pulling my neck away at the wrong time!
I have had spinal taps before and it is painful, but they do numb the area first with "bee sting" sticking sensations.
I am also interested in others experiences.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
spazzysmom
02-03-2003, 01:26 PM
I am going to get my first epidural shot today for this same problem. I have severe pain but also, clumsiness and loss of muscle control in hands. I also tend to have tremors in my hands and arms. Does anyone else experience this? I work at the keyboard all day and, besides being in severe pain all of the time, I am frustrated because I can no longer type as I used to. (It used to be second nature and now it takes double the time with triple the errors). Please let me know I am not crazy!!!
KeithEugeneW
02-03-2003, 07:56 PM
You're not crazy, I have a lot of the same, but not quite as bad as yours sounds. I have considerable pain in my neck and shoulder, and semi-numbness down my arm and especially in my fingers. The migraines are the worst part, but since they started me on Neurontin I've only had one, where I used to have 2 or 3 a week and missed a lot of work because of them. I started out as a teletype operator in the Air Force 26 years ago, went into computer programming and then into management where I spend about half my day on the computer, so I can relate the the keyboard thing. Strangely I have more discomfort using the mouse than I do the keyboard. I wish you luck in your shots (sounds like you probably have already had them by now) and hope you share your experience with us. Keep your chin up and hang in there. I'm optimistic that the shots will help me and that I can avoid the surgery. They told me there was a 50% chance they would work and keep me out of surgery. That's better than I have now, so I see that as a positive thing.
LilDarlin
02-04-2003, 08:07 AM
I had my first Epidural Cervical Injection on Feb 3, 2002. Yesterday. I was hurting in my upperback/neck all day and it got bad. However my shoulder and arm pain was better. I dont understand why my neck/back was still hurting so badly,...when I got some relief on shoulder and arm. Does anybody know??
Thanks,
Thanks,
spazzysmom
02-04-2003, 11:06 AM
I had my first epidural shot yesterday as well. I am a little sore in the area where they injected me (he injected me twice). My arms are a little numb but I feel surprisingly better. Keith, I started on Neurontin last week as well. Up until then I was eating Percs and Vics 2 to 3 times per day and am having to wean myself off of them slowly because I was starting to get hooked! We have a real medical crisis here in Cincinnati in that Doctors are dropping like flies and leaving because medical malpractice has gone through the roof and it is too costly to practice here. (We have more lawyers per capita than any other major city in this area.) It took me from October to February to actually get into see the doctor who finally helped me. I feel blessed to have him. He is getting me off the narcotics and actually fixing the problem. I am definitely on the right track! I will keep my chin up and actually feel better already. There is hope!
KeithEugeneW
02-04-2003, 04:29 PM
I know what you mean about trying to get an appointment. In July, my local Primary Care Physician got me an appointment in Syracuse with the orthapedic surgeon (a very good one who I have a lot of faith in) in the first week of September (a year since my previous appointment with him with an initial MRI). The symptoms were much worse and he took another MRI. He referred me to a pain doctor (appointment in December), and Neurologist (appointment in January) for consultation. Now in mid-February I'm finally getting the epidural shots that were recommended in September. The Neurologist fortunately ruled out MS in January, which weighed on my mind since September when I was told it was a possibility. If the shots work, I'm a happy camper. If not, then I'll have the surgery this spring (probably turn into being in 2004 at the rate it takes me to get something scheduled). Between the difficulty in getting in quickly to see a specialist, and the nonsense that the HMO puts me through waiting for their approvals, it is very frustrating!
KeithEugeneW
02-04-2003, 04:47 PM
I know what you mean about trying to get an appointment. In July, my local Primary Care Physician got me an appointment in Syracuse with the orthapedic surgeon (a very good one who I have a lot of faith in) in the first week of September (a year since my previous appointment with him with an initial MRI). The symptoms were much worse and he took another MRI. He referred me to a pain doctor (appointment in December), and Neurologist (appointment in January) for consultation. Now in mid-February I'm finally getting the epidural shots that were recommended in September. The Neurologist fortunately ruled out MS in January, which weighed on my mind since September when I was told it was a possibility. If the shots work, I'm a happy camper. If not, then I'll have the surgery this spring (probably turn into being in 2004 at the rate it takes me to get something scheduled). Between the difficulty in getting in quickly to see a specialist, and the nonsense that the HMO puts me through waiting for their approvals, it is very frustrating!
spazzysmom
02-05-2003, 05:28 PM
It truly is nonsense. It is like the HMO's know more than the doctors. I don't think so! Now I found out yesterday that all the Docs in Alliance Primary Care have dumped Aetna (my insurance provider or "Forgetya" as I affectionately refer to them. I may have to switch or pay the difference. I have promised myself that if it comes to that I am just going to stay with my doc and pay the difference. My health is more important than some silly insurance company. Hope all goes well for you, Keith, it sounds like we are both going through the same thing. Hang in there.
KeithEugeneW
02-05-2003, 07:15 PM
I agree, it is nonsense. Supposedly the HMO idea is about keeping insurance costs under control. Apparently it doesn't work, because my bi-weekly insurance contribution (my employer pays the other 60-65%) just went from $93 to $155. I wouldn't mind paying the rates if I didn't get played for a fool by them on getting what I need when I need it from health care providers. I'm sure the doctors are just as fed up with it.
Good luck with your treatment as well, I hope you find permanent relief from your pain. I get my shots a week from tomorrow, so I'm anxious to see what they will do for me. I'm keeping an open and optimistic mind about them and thinking positive.
Good luck with your treatment as well, I hope you find permanent relief from your pain. I get my shots a week from tomorrow, so I'm anxious to see what they will do for me. I'm keeping an open and optimistic mind about them and thinking positive.
LilDarlin
02-08-2003, 01:38 AM
Please find out the side effects and learn all you can before you get this thing.
Im only saying this because I thought I was gonna die!
I was so aggitated, nervous, sweats, heart pounding for 3 days, could not sleep, and everylittle thing set me off. I had to have a shot yesterday to conteract the injection. Turns out,..I had an allergic reaction to the Steroid.
It only relieved my pain a bit but its back now.
I will NEVER have another one.
Good luck with yours on the 13th
Im only saying this because I thought I was gonna die!
I was so aggitated, nervous, sweats, heart pounding for 3 days, could not sleep, and everylittle thing set me off. I had to have a shot yesterday to conteract the injection. Turns out,..I had an allergic reaction to the Steroid.
It only relieved my pain a bit but its back now.
I will NEVER have another one.
Good luck with yours on the 13th
mel333
02-08-2003, 08:31 AM
Hi,
I was wondering if your were having the epidural shots for impingement symptoms or more overall pain. Have you had facet or nerve block injections previously?. I have so far only had facet shots for disc degeneration at c3/4 and 5/6 and am having a right c6 nerve block next week for arm weakness. I also get terrible headaches and wonder whether lower discs 5/6 etc can cause/ contribute. I would be interested to know whether the epidural lessens your head pain. It sounds like you've been waiting for them for a while so best of luck and I hope they help.
Mel
I was wondering if your were having the epidural shots for impingement symptoms or more overall pain. Have you had facet or nerve block injections previously?. I have so far only had facet shots for disc degeneration at c3/4 and 5/6 and am having a right c6 nerve block next week for arm weakness. I also get terrible headaches and wonder whether lower discs 5/6 etc can cause/ contribute. I would be interested to know whether the epidural lessens your head pain. It sounds like you've been waiting for them for a while so best of luck and I hope they help.
Mel
LilDarlin
02-08-2003, 08:38 AM
Hi Mel,
A headache is pretty standard from an epidural. Some have them more,..some less. I had one the day after my injection. I dont know about the other kind of blocks on headaches.?? My injection was for my C5-C6 herniated Disc.
[This message has been edited by LilDarlin (edited 02-08-2003).]
A headache is pretty standard from an epidural. Some have them more,..some less. I had one the day after my injection. I dont know about the other kind of blocks on headaches.?? My injection was for my C5-C6 herniated Disc.
[This message has been edited by LilDarlin (edited 02-08-2003).]
LilDarlin
02-08-2003, 08:41 AM
Spazzy,
Did you have any side effects from your cervical epidural??
thanks,
Lil'
Did you have any side effects from your cervical epidural??
thanks,
Lil'
KeithEugeneW
02-13-2003, 12:10 PM
Just got home from my first epidural injection. It wasn't bad at all. The most painful part was getting the initial shot of anesthetic (I'm guessing novacaine?), and even that wasn't bad, just a little sting. After that I just felt the pressure of the cortisone needle going in and the cortisone being injected, but not painful. In a few hours the numbing agent will wear off, so I'll post later on how things go after that. I had mine done at University Hospital in Syracuse by Dr. Thomas. I have to say that every single hospital staff member I met today was incredibly friendly and took good care of not only me, but also my wife who was waiting for me to drive me home. That atmosphere definetely relaxed me and took a lot of the nervous apprehension out of the experience. I have no qualms now about the next 2 shots in March.
CoffeeGirl
02-14-2003, 10:36 AM
I had one today. I have another one in two weeks if I am not better by then.
Instead of feeling better, I just feel swollen. I know they told me it could take 2-10 days before I feel better but it's discouraging.
Instead of feeling better, I just feel swollen. I know they told me it could take 2-10 days before I feel better but it's discouraging.
PsychLea
02-15-2003, 03:07 AM
Gee, at this point, I am willing to do whatever it takes to get rid of this pain.
I dropped my prednisone down to 40mg and now have that awful chest pain back. I need some relief and the pain meds and I just don't get along.
See NS on Monday and definitely need to find a way to manage the pain.If an epidural is the only option right now, I am taking it.
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God bless,
Lea
I dropped my prednisone down to 40mg and now have that awful chest pain back. I need some relief and the pain meds and I just don't get along.
See NS on Monday and definitely need to find a way to manage the pain.If an epidural is the only option right now, I am taking it.
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God bless,
Lea
queenofhearts
02-15-2003, 08:40 PM
I've had 2 cervical epidurals for herniations in c4,5,6,7 and the discomfort during the injections was minor. A few days after I felt very sore at the injection sight, but about a week after I felt a relief in the areas I have been experiencing pain. Left arm, left shoulder, shoulder blades, neck, head. They took the edge off the pain, but didn't relieve all the pain. Some people have better luck than others. I do feel better though. I'm scheduled for a third in March. I'll keep in touch.
KeithEugeneW
02-15-2003, 08:52 PM
I was quite sore the 2nd day, not as bad today, but still sore. I noticed that my right shoulder was in a lot less pain though. Once it settles down in a few days I'm hopeful that I'll notice some improvement in my neck. I was very tired for about 24 hours after the shot, slept a great deal of that time.
winged phantom
02-18-2003, 12:36 AM
I just had my series of three EDS in my C-spine, and I din't think that much about them, once I gave the OK. Actually, it was the uncertainty and fear, going into the first one, that had me bummed. I had a long list of questions, including, "What is the probability of paralysis?" and "What is your rate of complications?", but this doctor did such a good job on the first one, I kept with him for the other two. He used a fluoroscope, and I just kept very quiet and relaxed (at least I tried). It made my rosacea flare up big-time the next day, and I had a few different feelings, but nothing to write home about.
The thing is, I hear this is really only temporary (and they DID help my mobility and flexibility!), and I face surgery down the road.
wr
The thing is, I hear this is really only temporary (and they DID help my mobility and flexibility!), and I face surgery down the road.
wr
mrsnshick
04-28-2003, 10:33 PM
Hello. This is my first time on this board. My husband is scheduled to get his first c spine epidural on 5/13 and he is really nervous. I showed him the other posts here and it did make him feel better. Some history. He was injured at work loading trailers with 5 foot 70 - 120 lb rolls of foam padding for under carpeting. They first said torn rotator cuff, then bone spurs. He was sent back to work and finally went back to a doctor. He went to an orthopedic specialist who preformed a mumford procedure and PT. He was having more and more ain. Workers comp sent him to am IME who said "there was something else going on " and suggested an MRI of his c-spine. Well, lo and behold, he has herniated C3/4, 4/5, 5/6, 6/7, and slight encrochment of C7-T1. Now he has to go for the c-spine epidurals and is very nervous. I thought he was nervous of the prospect of having spinal surgery but he seems to be equally nervous about this. Thanks for your honest opinions on this post. I have picked out the positive one to read to him (he's watching tv). Can anyone tell me how many injections you get at a time and how many seperate times you get them (# visits). He's really bummed out thinking he's never going back to work - we have to pay for COBRA insurance ($500.00 ) per month and he's been off since Aug 29th 2002. I'm trying to gather some info to be better informed. Thanks for any info and for listening (reading). (Oh I'm disabled with severe depression, severe anxiety, OCD, and panic attacks so this isn't doing much for me either so info will benefit both of us).
Nanner
04-28-2003, 10:52 PM
Hi there, Mrsnshick-love the name of your hometown! I had my first cervical epidural 2 weeks ago, and I would tell your spouse it's not too bad. I had mine with no sedation and the worst part was the squishy noise when they hit the "sweet spot" for the shot.
They will give your husband injections of numbing stuff (maybe lidocaine) first. Then the steroids follow. There was some pressure during the injections, but nothing unbearable and it was over quickly. The doc just told me to take it easy the rest of the day, and NO driving. I didn't feel near the aftereffects I felt with the occipital epidural in the back of my head. That stayed sore much longer.
Since your husband has so many herniations, they may inject at more than one spot. The doctor told me that the injection effects 3 levels-where the shot is and the level above and below. Perhaps someone else can give you a definitive answer on that.
Be sure your hubby gets the IV sedation. I'm definitely going to have it the next time on May 6, as I think it will make the shakes I had post-procedure less intense (or maybe nonexistent). As it was, they only lasted about 10 minutes max. My understanding is the common way the cervical epidurals is administered is a course of 3 shots about 2 weeks apart. You can repeat the series, but no sooner than at 6 month intervals.
Good for you, taking the time to inform yourself and your husband on his upcoming treatment! You will find this group a vast source of information and experience to help you on your way.
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Nancy D-ACDF C6-7 on 6/7/02. Donor bone with no hardware
[This message has been edited by Nanner (edited 04-28-2003).]
They will give your husband injections of numbing stuff (maybe lidocaine) first. Then the steroids follow. There was some pressure during the injections, but nothing unbearable and it was over quickly. The doc just told me to take it easy the rest of the day, and NO driving. I didn't feel near the aftereffects I felt with the occipital epidural in the back of my head. That stayed sore much longer.
Since your husband has so many herniations, they may inject at more than one spot. The doctor told me that the injection effects 3 levels-where the shot is and the level above and below. Perhaps someone else can give you a definitive answer on that.
Be sure your hubby gets the IV sedation. I'm definitely going to have it the next time on May 6, as I think it will make the shakes I had post-procedure less intense (or maybe nonexistent). As it was, they only lasted about 10 minutes max. My understanding is the common way the cervical epidurals is administered is a course of 3 shots about 2 weeks apart. You can repeat the series, but no sooner than at 6 month intervals.
Good for you, taking the time to inform yourself and your husband on his upcoming treatment! You will find this group a vast source of information and experience to help you on your way.
------------------
Nancy D-ACDF C6-7 on 6/7/02. Donor bone with no hardware
[This message has been edited by Nanner (edited 04-28-2003).]
KeithEugeneW
04-29-2003, 04:45 PM
They turned out to be not that big of a deal. The worst part is my own mind working while they are doing it. I have this fear that they will go too far with the needle, but I've actually never heard of that happening. They do it under a fluoroscope (x-ray on a TV screen) so they can see exactly where the needle is at all times. It didn't hurt at all. They didn't give me any sedation, but put an IV tube in and taped it to my wrist in case they needed to give me anything quickly. I could feel some pressure, but no pain, other than a little prick at first with the numbing agent they give you. After that it was just my mind, like I said, which made me a little queasy and sweaty, but nothing serous. If I would just relax it would be a breeze. Too bad I can't read a magazine or something while they do it :D I had 2, and am going back May 20th for the last one of 3. So far, they haven't helped me, but there are others there when I go who are having their injections who have had good luck with them. They say about 60% get relief with them, so it's worth the effort. Who knows, maybe my 3rd one will make a difference. I did notice that I had better mobility of my neck after the shots for a couple of weeks.
Barbara DeWitt
05-01-2003, 11:42 AM
I developed RSD upper extremities after carpal tunnel surgery. I have worked as a claim benefit specialist since 1987. I had 3 stellate ganglion nerve blocks that confirmed the diagnosis. A Tunneled Epidural Catheter was placed in my spine. Two weeks later,an infection and spinal abcess developed. I then had an emergency spinal Laminectomy. A Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter was done following the Laminectomy to deliver IV antibotics 4x's a day for 6 wks along with Cipro, morphine, neurontin, zoloft and oxicondon. I have been in physical and occupational therapy for a year. The giant company I work for says there is nothing wrong with me and RSD is a "cottage industry"
IS ANYONE ELSE HAVING TROUBLE LIKE THIS?
IS ANYONE ELSE HAVING TROUBLE LIKE THIS?
melly66
05-31-2003, 01:13 PM
hello everyone! i'm new to this site as well as new to the whole message board thing, but i've read messages for all different types of problems on this site and i have to say that i've gotten more in-depth information from "real-life people" than from the medical community. here's my deal: i broke my tail bone 6 years ago and never got any treatment, so now i am experiencing the repercussions. now my doctor thinks i may have a herniated disc as well and is suggesting epidural shots!!!!
i must say i am frightened to the core!!any suggestions on how to approach??
i would greatly appreciate any help!!
thanks
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MEG
i must say i am frightened to the core!!any suggestions on how to approach??
i would greatly appreciate any help!!
thanks
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MEG
winged phantom
05-31-2003, 01:56 PM
Gee, sorry we missed you Barbara... Sometimes it's better for a newbie to post on their own thread, but I can understand posting there when it's on the subject.... Come back, come back!
HI Meg,
Welcome to the Boards... you can find a lot of info here, and lots of people who are willing to try to help you with your problems.
I'm really no expert on epidurals... Just don't EVER let a doctor do it without the use of a fluoroscope. At best it may be ineffective, and at worst it can cause serious, irreversible damage. You can look up the dangers on your own or read some of them here...
I don't know exactly what to say, except that for lumbar issues you may find more specific help on the Back Problems board here at HB... they are the ones who are much more knowledgeable about lumbar problems. Sorry I'm not much help right now.
wr
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12/29/89 C5-6 Microdiskectomy (no fusion)
4/9/03 ACDF C4-7 with plating and donor bone
HI Meg,
Welcome to the Boards... you can find a lot of info here, and lots of people who are willing to try to help you with your problems.
I'm really no expert on epidurals... Just don't EVER let a doctor do it without the use of a fluoroscope. At best it may be ineffective, and at worst it can cause serious, irreversible damage. You can look up the dangers on your own or read some of them here...
I don't know exactly what to say, except that for lumbar issues you may find more specific help on the Back Problems board here at HB... they are the ones who are much more knowledgeable about lumbar problems. Sorry I'm not much help right now.
wr
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12/29/89 C5-6 Microdiskectomy (no fusion)
4/9/03 ACDF C4-7 with plating and donor bone