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What Are The Side Effects Of Epidural Steroid Injections?

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Posted on Fri, 6 Nov 2015
Question: Had MRI. Am a vet. MRI says multilevel lumbar spondyosis, severe neural foraminal central canal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, schmorls node formation, hyperopathy of epidural fat, swelling at endplates l5,s1. Bulging discs. The va affairs says for me to get epidural steroid injections. I researched this and the injections are not FDA approved. Further, they are a leading factor in causing or worsening osteoporosis in the low back, hips an legs. I am reluctant to proceed as suggested by the va doctors. My pain is awful and switches from numbness to electrical shocks down my legs and my arms. If I sit, my arms go numb. I can't drive any length of time. My urinating is messed up. I feel like I could pee but don't then I'll lay down and pee will come out. Help me out.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Sudhir Kumar (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Yes continuously taking steroids for long periods can cause osteoporosis.

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query

I'm Dr Sudhir Kumar

I have gone through your query and understand your concern. Epidural steroids are indicated to relieve pain in lumbar spondylitis. They are not having much side effects as they are least absorbed systemically ( more acting locally) . But if taken continuously for long periods then these can cause osteoporosis. If you has much problem of pain and urine etc then it is advisable to take epidural steroids.

You can discuss with your doctor about it.

Hope your query get answered. If you have any clarification then I will be happy to help you.

Wishing you a good health.
Take care.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Sudhir Kumar

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Practicing since :1993

Answered : 3356 Questions

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What Are The Side Effects Of Epidural Steroid Injections?

Brief Answer: Yes continuously taking steroids for long periods can cause osteoporosis. Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for your query I'm Dr Sudhir Kumar I have gone through your query and understand your concern. Epidural steroids are indicated to relieve pain in lumbar spondylitis. They are not having much side effects as they are least absorbed systemically ( more acting locally) . But if taken continuously for long periods then these can cause osteoporosis. If you has much problem of pain and urine etc then it is advisable to take epidural steroids. You can discuss with your doctor about it. Hope your query get answered. If you have any clarification then I will be happy to help you. Wishing you a good health. Take care.