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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Are Cortisone Injections Safe To Take For Pinched Nerve In Back?

Hello, My father is 81 years old and has a heart condition. He has a pinched nerve in his back and takes cortisone injections to heal the pain. These injections releives his pain for a month and then he needs another injection. Could he see a physiotherapist instead of having these injections in the back. Thanks. Pierre Richard
Mon, 5 Feb 2024
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Your father is advised to get connected to a Physical therapist. Long term use of cortisone injections can cause complications. Physiotherapy is very helpful to treat the pinched nerve, it relieves pain, and tension in the nerve. He can take NSAIDS, one stat after food if required. He my not take it if he is comfortable.

Physiotherapy gives more strength to the nerves and the muscles which are affected. Exercises under observation of the physical therapist effectively reduce discomfort. Nerve-related pain can also be reduced by drugs like gabapentin or Amitriptyline.

Ideally the symptoms get controlled and the patient feels better. But in case the symptoms persist then you should report to a Neurologist, get your father examined and evaluated. He may have to get a few more blood tests and imaging tests done before treatment is started. If the symptoms persist despite taking medication, you might require surgery.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
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Are Cortisone Injections Safe To Take For Pinched Nerve In Back?

Hello, Your father is advised to get connected to a Physical therapist. Long term use of cortisone injections can cause complications. Physiotherapy is very helpful to treat the pinched nerve, it relieves pain, and tension in the nerve. He can take NSAIDS, one stat after food if required. He my not take it if he is comfortable. Physiotherapy gives more strength to the nerves and the muscles which are affected. Exercises under observation of the physical therapist effectively reduce discomfort. Nerve-related pain can also be reduced by drugs like gabapentin or Amitriptyline. Ideally the symptoms get controlled and the patient feels better. But in case the symptoms persist then you should report to a Neurologist, get your father examined and evaluated. He may have to get a few more blood tests and imaging tests done before treatment is started. If the symptoms persist despite taking medication, you might require surgery. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician