Injections of anti-inflammatory steroid medications for back and neck pain are becoming very common. According to the Harvard Health Blog which is maintained by Harvard Medical School, in 2011, there were 2.3 million steroid injections into the spines of people experiencing back pain billed to Medicare alone. These injections are taken to help reduce inflammation and help relieve pain, by delivering drugs that mimic the effects of two hormones, cortisone and hydrocortisone. They injections don't always work, but when they do, they bring significant relief to many patients' pain and suffering.
“If you are in severe pain with a ruptured spinal disc and you get a steroid injection, you are going to feel better sooner,” says Dr. James P. Rathmell, MD, professor of anesthesia at Harvard Medical School. “That’s the good part.”
Although there can be risks when receiving a spinal injection, the risks are considered to be minimal. Dr. Rathmell has said that it's hard to know exactly how often spinal injections go wrong. “My belief, based on the small numbers that are out there, is that it's probably less than one in 10,000,” Dr. Rathmell says. It is uncommon for spinal injection to go awry, but it is important to be aware of the risks.
“I think it is terrific when someone comes in and asks if they can be paralyzed by this injection,” he says. “That’s the perfect question to ask. The answer is yes, but the chances of that are extraordinarily low. Then I describe exactly what I’m going to do to make it as low as humanly possible.” - Dr. Rathmell, MD.
Everything considered, spine injections may be a central part of the treatment plan for many victims of injury accidents. Always consult with your doctor regard the best course of medical treatment. In many cases, conservative treatment options are recommended first before spinal injections.
Motor vehicle accidents can potentially cause injuries where spinal injections would be an available treatment option. If you have been injured in a car or motorcycle crash, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our accident attorneys are available to help you with questions about insurance problems, medical expenses, and pain and suffering benefits as allowed by Michigan law. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.