It's my understanding that steroids (used in some procedures/injections) can have an adverse affect on the adrenal glands within some patients.

I haven't read a great deal about it, but ... knew (by that sinking feeling of my heart falling to the pit of my stomach) when I found out that that is what I was feeling/experiencing. I'm very fortunate in the respect that the doc I see for chronic pain management counseling worked previously as a trauma room nurse. She said that some things - for pain management - can be done without inclusion of steroids; others, even docs, have stated the same.

I don't know the stats on how many people might have unpleasant effects resulting from steroids. For me, though? It was enough to say: No more steroids.

I am happy with my decision; I think time was the "cure," and my body is getting itself back in-check. It has taken several months.

I see my doc on Wednesday and I will ask her if she can explain more about how steroids affect the glands. In the event I may not remember it all, she's really great about writing things down so I can share.