
Hello There, For Over 4 Years Now I Have Had

Question: Hello there, for over 4 years now I have had spondylolisthesis between my L4 and L5, as the pain is already bad enough, I just recently developed an indent on the lower right side of my back. I heard it could be from my injection (cortisone shot) for the pain but this happened about 3 months after? My friend noticed it and it is very easy to see it. It’s not “back dimples” because I’ve never had them and it just showed up unexpectedly. Been told to go to the chiropractor but I don’t want to go if it’s not anything serious. Also, I’ve been treated with oral steroids, injection, pt, basically everything but surgery. And I’m not sure what my weight restriction is but I absolutely cannot lift heavy items (and I’m a pretty scrawny girl) without this sharp aching pain. There’s much more to it, but I’m really only concerned about the indentation because it just showed up. Please help!
Brief Answer:
Possible muscle atrophy after injections.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor " service.
I have read your query.
The indentation that you are referring is most likely caused by injections that may cause muscles and soft tissue atrophy.
So, it is not a serious concern.
Exercises to strengthen the lower back muscles are necessary.
Since you are correctly diagnosed with spondylolysthesis, you should not lift more than 5 kg.
Consider surgery also for a definitive solution.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Possible muscle atrophy after injections.
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor " service.
I have read your query.
The indentation that you are referring is most likely caused by injections that may cause muscles and soft tissue atrophy.
So, it is not a serious concern.
Exercises to strengthen the lower back muscles are necessary.
Since you are correctly diagnosed with spondylolysthesis, you should not lift more than 5 kg.
Consider surgery also for a definitive solution.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Nagamani Ng

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