Is there any way to speed up the scheduling of an epidural for disc herniation? i am in severe pain, yet i have to wait 6-8 weeks to get the shot.

Procedure scheduling: Many variables can affect scheduling: busy doctor schedule, authorization department in doctor office, your insurance rules and criteria to authorize such a service among numerous others including if it is at a facility where you doctor has more limited scheduling options. I would contact your doctor's office and request an explanation and to see if they can assist in accelerating the process.

If that is indicated: Epidural steroids do not help well with the back pain. They reduce inflammation of the nerve root (helps with sciatica). Pain control in acute disc herniation is best achieved with non-steroidals (ibuprofen/motrin/advil), possible lumbar brace, physical therapy etc. Speeding up a procedure which has been denied is as easy as having your pain provider call the insurance (doc-to-doc).