Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are a commonly used form of pain management. They provide relief from conditions that cause inflammation of the spinal nerve root. However, there are still limits to how often these injections can be used safely.
Read this blog to find out how often you can get epidural injections!
How Often Can You Receive Epidural Steroid Injections?
The number of epidural steroid injections you can get depends on your condition, but most doctors recommend no more than three to six per year. This helps give pain relief while reducing the risk of side effects from frequent steroid use.
Factors That Affect How Often You Can Get ESIs
How often a person can safely receive epidural steroid injections (ESIs) depends on several factors, such as:
Location of Injection
One important factor is the location of the injection. Injections in the neck, middle back, or lower back may have different risks, so the number of safe injections can vary.
Type of Steroid
When it comes to getting ESIs, there are many types of steroids with unique health benefits. Also, each one has its own safety limits. Your healthcare provider can provide you with the right information on how frequently it is safe to get any specific steroid for pain relief.
Individual Factors
A person’s age, overall health, and medical conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis can also affect how often they should get ESIs.
Response to Treatment
Lastly, how well a person responds to treatment is important. If the first two or three injections don’t improve your condition, more injections might not help, and other treatment options may be needed.
Risks of Frequent Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)
Although ESIs are usually safe, getting them too often can cause side effects or reduce effectiveness. Let’s look at some risks of getting frequent ESIs:
- Too many injections can affect your body’s natural hormone system
- Steroids can raise blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes
- Long-term use may lead to weaker bones or osteoporosis
- There is a risk of nerve injury, infection, or bleeding at the injection site.
- Repeated injections may also stop working if your body builds tolerance or your condition worsens.
When to Stop Getting Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)
If you don’t feel better after two or three epidural steroid injections, your doctor may suggest stopping this treatment. In that case, other options like physical therapy, surgery, or different pain relief methods may be considered to help manage your condition.
Hence, it is important to follow up with your doctor about your symptoms after each injection. Tell them whether your condition is improving, stagnant, or worsening. This will help doctors make timely adjustments for chronic pain.
Final Thoughts
Epidural steroid injections can help relieve long-term back or neck pain. But to stay safe, it’s important not to get too many. Most doctors recommend no more than three to six injections per year. This helps reduce pain while lowering the risk of side effects.
If you have more questions about this treatment and its frequency for chronic back and neck pain, consult doctors at Genesis Pain Clinic at (913) 871-9888 for long term relief!