Did you know current research guidelines recommend against the use of epidural steroid injections into the spine? They actually are not even FDA-approved for the spine. They are being used off label. On its website, the FDA warns these injections into the spine may result in rare but serious adverse effects, including loss of vision, stroke, paralysis, and death. The Journal of American Medical Association advised physicians to refrain from using them on patients with any kind of chronic back pain, yet it continues on a daily basis.
In one study for each steroid injection into women over 65, the risk of suffering vertebral compression fracture increases by 21%. This is a serious red flag. The very latest study for chronic spine pain recommended against the use of epidural steroid injections.
The bottom line is they may provide some short-term relief for acute pain but should be completely avoided for chronic back pain. Just as our last newsletter highlighted common medications for back pain as offering unimpressive results, the same can be said for steroid injections into the spine. Dr. Kyle personally never encourages patients to get one.
Non-drug and non-surgical treatment including chiropractic, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, home exercises, and targeted supplementation are your best call. Exhaust all these options first before considering more invasive and risky procedures.