spinal pain block injections

[pendinesands]

hi
has anyone had pain block injections??to treat lumbar stenosis,i have a cervical sci (incomplete)but having lots of pain from lumbar,so they are offering the injections,does anyone have any info or experince on these injections,i.e are thewy worth it ect??thanks for any help.

[cst216]

I've had 3 sets of blocks done.  Each time with varying "success".  The procedure itself is uncomfortable, and you'll need someone to drive you to/from the pain management clinic or office.  It's quickly done, and if properly done, the pain relief is a godsend.

They're not a cure-all, but the first set I had provided me with enough pain relief I was able to function at almost 100% (minus the coordination and motor control issues.), and since my back injury in 2004, it was the first time I had slept through a full 8 hour night.  God what I wouldn't give for it again.  Some people are able to manage that lifestyle permanently, but unfortunately for me, structural changes more or less made the blocks ineffective for me. But I still tried for a second and third set each year following.

I took the "I'll try anything once approach", even for having blocks done, and personally I'm glad I did. With severe stenosis from L2 down, I was at least able to be pain free for a short while.

(I noticed that it's been a while since the post, just hoping it helps someone.)