Has Anyone Had a Steroid Injection in the Spine?
I have been diagnosed with Cervical Spondylosis, which is the deterioration of the bones and discs in the neck. This condition can arise from Osteoarthritis, and in my case, it accompanies Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, a disease I've had since I was four years old.
I am experiencing neck pain and stiffness. A potential treatment is a targeted injection of medication to reduce inflammation in the areas around the affected disc.
I'm wondering if anyone in the community has undergone this type of procedure.
I have had steroid in injections pretty much all over the body at this point. Mainly the next and neck spine area, but other places too. Cortisone injections can definitely help in the short term but also remember it is putting a sometimes significant amount of steroids into your system. Like, for me, I got all the side effects of high doses of prednisone for a week or two, so that wasn't fun. It did help with the muscles and spine, though, so it's a trade off like most things with RA. Let us know if there's anything we can do to help. DPM
, Thank you for answering my question. I need to decide whether to undergo the procedure. I understand that it may alleviate the pain for a few months, or it may not. I may have some side effects, or I may not.
Decisions, Decisions!
Hi
. As you can see from Daniel's response, you definitely are not alone. More than 85 percent of people over age 60 have some level of cervical spondylosis. Most, however, have no symptoms. Of course, given the JRA, it is not too surprising that you do (I know - JRA, the gift that keeps on giving). Besides the shot, has anyone mentioned therapy to stretch and strengthen muscles in the area? I want to share with you this page from the Mayo Clinic that discusses treatment: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cervical-spondylosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370792. Of course, you would need to discuss any therapy/exercise with your doctor to see what, given the JRA would be appropriate. Hoping you can get some relief soon and feel free to keep us posted on how you are doing. Best, Richard (Team Member) Hi Richard Faust,
I'm grateful for your response to my question. Your assistance has been invaluable whenever I've posted comments or inquiries. My appreciation extends to everyone who has provided support and guidance throughout my years of membership with this website.
I will take a look at the mayo clinic website, but the doctor did discuss alternative treatments with me. I have had physical therapy in the past for my neck, but it didn't offer much relief. I do practice daily stretches, and I use a heating pad, also cold therapy when needed.
No one in my life understands the challenges I face; it helps to have a place to turn to for support.
Thank You,
stargaze57
