Epidural injections

[CCannon48]

I have OA and RA plus disc degeneration, spinal stenosis and history of herniated lumbar discs and related back surgeries. After having a lumbar MRI, I am awaiting suggested therapy of epidural injections for back, hip and knee pain. My concern is the addition of these injections in addition to my current use of anti-inflammatory meds - daily prednisone, Celebrex, Flector patch, and the recent addition of Cimzia, a biologic for RA. Wondering about impact/help from these injections and adverse effects of too many anti-inflammatory meds?

[hawker955]

Cannon48,

I had a lumbar puncture some years ago and though it was like being kicked slowly in the back, I am reliably informed that an epidural is less painful because it is less invasive than a puncture. Ask your doctor if you have major concerns. But the beneficial effect of these injections can be huge as I had a spinal block in 2015 and have been largely pain-free ever since.

HTH?

[CCannon48 in reply to hawker955]

Thanks! More concerned about amount of anti-inflammatory medications already in my body.

[helixhelix]

Presumably your doctors know what drugs you have been prescribed? As to me having a flexor patch and Celebrex is odd as same class of drugs. But anyway, before the proc dure is done someone should discuss the risks, benefits and interactions with you - if not ask!