How often can i get epidural steroid injections? i have spinal stenosis and epidurals were working to control my pain for about six months per injection. my last one only really worked for about four months, but i was able to tolerate the pain until the s

When : When medications, treatments and interventions aren't working as well as they have been previously, that could mean several things. Most commonly in the case of spinal stenosis, your condition has progressed to the point where epidural steroids aren't going to work. Stenosis is a decrease in space available for the nerves to pass due to facet arthritis, disc bulging/herniation or congenital reasons. Because of this, injecting fluid under pressure may cause the space to be further compromised. If a treatment that was working no longer works, it means that you likely need to be re-assessed with new x-rays and possibly an mri. If you are a surgical candidate, don't panic. Decompression in a situation where spinal stenosis is causing symptoms such as neurogenic claudication is very rewarding. Patients note significant improvement in their symptoms almost immediately after surgery. But surgery should only be considered as a last resort, when all conservative measures are no longer effective. In order to make an informed decision, make sure that you educate yourself with resources necessary to make an informed decision in the treatment of your spinal stenosis.

Usually 3 times/yr: We often consider it is safe to use steroid for spinal injection up to 3 times a year. However, depending on your age and medical condition, as well as your response to the therapy, some patients benefit from more frequent injection. There is no textbook-guideline. Main concern is your adrenal gland function by overuse.

Dr Harris agreed

it depends: If you don't have diabetes or other conditions that steroids may exacerbate, you can safely receive 4-6 injections per year.

Dr Jacobson agreed