Tweet
I'm no fan of cortisone (for me anyhow), as an oral med because of side effects. However, I'm rethinking it for injections which seems to be less dangerous. As discussed elsewhere, I relied on narcotics for pain control on and off for a decade, while dealing with a complex family situation. Now that the fit is hitting the shan (much worsened curve, arthritis and disability) I regret failing to address the source of the pain more directly - instead of just treating the pain.
I especially regret it because I figure focusing on pain relief, probably allowed/caused my spine to get worse, including DDD. I belatedly understand that joint inflammation is a damaging process, eroding the whole joint in addition to the disk (which releases an eroding chemical as it "dies".
If cortisone (injections) not only relieve pain, but reduce damage they seem like an especially good idea (and one I wish I'd turned to sooner). Dumb dumb dumb!. My kids ARE doing better, though, so my lack of self-management wasn't entirely a waste. (I didn't seem able to multi-task during those kid-centric years).
Better late than never, though. Cortisone IS the most usual chemical used in spinal injections, isn't it? Am I right about its reducing joint damage? Are there any downsides? How soon do you know if it's helping, and how often are injections (usually) given? At more than one location in the spine?
Thank you!!
I especially regret it because I figure focusing on pain relief, probably allowed/caused my spine to get worse, including DDD. I belatedly understand that joint inflammation is a damaging process, eroding the whole joint in addition to the disk (which releases an eroding chemical as it "dies".
If cortisone (injections) not only relieve pain, but reduce damage they seem like an especially good idea (and one I wish I'd turned to sooner). Dumb dumb dumb!. My kids ARE doing better, though, so my lack of self-management wasn't entirely a waste. (I didn't seem able to multi-task during those kid-centric years).
Better late than never, though. Cortisone IS the most usual chemical used in spinal injections, isn't it? Am I right about its reducing joint damage? Are there any downsides? How soon do you know if it's helping, and how often are injections (usually) given? At more than one location in the spine?
Thank you!!
Cervical stenosis op'd 3-07, minimally invasive
Comment