Getting an epidural steroid injection Friday without sedation, what should I expect?
I’ve been struggling with chronic lower back pain since around 2018, caused by an auto accident many, many years ago. Lately, it’s been getting worse, to the point where I can’t stand, walk, sit, or even lie flat on my back for long periods of time.
I’ve tried several treatments like steroids, muscle relaxers, lidocaine patches, and electro-stimulation, but they’ve only offered temporary relief, if any at all. At the moment, I’m on Percocet (Oxy 5/Aceto 325), which takes the edge off for a few hours, but the pain returns as soon as it wears off, and I’m wary of continuing because of the risk of addiction.
I am waiting for a new MRI (last was in 2020) but can't get that until June 9th.
I’m scheduled for an ESI without sedation this Friday and I’m curious about what to expect. Are they painful? Are there any side effects? Do they actually work? Should I wait until after the MRI? Or should I just go ahead with ablation instead?
Any thoughts or suggestions?