Hi everyone,
I was diagnosed about a month ago with MG. Trying to get my meds at the right dose. Now my question is, I have been having issues with back and leg pain. My doc ordered a MRI. He is suggesting an epidural for my back pain.
I have known 4 people who have had one, and they all said they wish they wouldn't of had it. My pain goes through my right buttock all the way down my leg into my foot. It is a very intense pain. I go see my doc tomorrow and I am supposed to let him know my decision.
I think I would rather take a pain pill rather than have a needle stuck in my back. Does opiates have a negative effect on MG, does anyone know? I am very nervous about this. I appreciate any input..
Thanks

Don't be afraid to have the epidural. I also have MG and herniated a disc. I had been through all the OTC pain pills and opiates. The pain was exactly as you described. The only thing I found that really worked were the epidurals. I was terrified the first time but it is nothing to worry about - I have had 4 in one year and as long as you have a doctor who is very skilled and does this fluoriscopically you have nothing to worry about. The patients who have pain going down the leg seen to get the most response from the epidurals as compared to those with just back pain. If a little of the cortisone leaks systemically it's not going to hurt your MG at all - you might benefit from it. I have no side effects from the epidurals. Good luck to you and hope you get relief.

thanks violalady...
I decided to get the epidural...seems more pros than cons....

Dewcole, Back pain can be very common in people with MG. When muscles get weak, it can throw off the spine. You have to be very careful when doing anything invasive with the spine. I'm rather opinionated on this since I knew of someone who ended up having a botched one and being in a wheelchair the rest of his life.

Did you and your doctor figure out why you're having back pain?! Sometimes physical therapy can do wonders. I've had it in the past and they do much more than massage. They can do ultrasound therapy plus give you tips on strengthening your core muscles to keep your back in good shape.

If you had the epidural done, I hope it went well. If you keep having pain, consider a 2nd opinion from a neurologist and/or a referral to PT.

Annie

After finding out I had spinal stenosis I had an epidural 5 days ago.

So far the results are remarkable. Back pain, buttocks pain, thigh and calf pain have been reduced amazingly. How long it will last is another question.

I also have pain and numbness in my feet as well. I never mentioned this to the pain Dr. because I was so concerned about the back pain I will be talking to him about that at my next appointment. He was concetrating on the discs causing my back pain. My neuro has ruled out neuroaphy as the cause of my foot problem.

I am hoping there is something he can do for me because we never dicussed the discs that may be affecting my feet.

Good luck;

Tony