I guess I have used the wrong terminology in many of my postings so I want to apologize if they have mis-led anyone in the past, present, or future.

I guess I use the term "nerve block" incorrectly.

I have had injections with lidocaine or a similar agent and it was for "diagnostic" purpose. I have also had injections with steroids for "treatment" purposes. When having injections with a steroid, I have called them nerve blocks. If I was incorrect in doing so, I do apologize but the paperwork from my insurer says: surgical procedure - nerve block

I really did not mean to cause any confusion. I have also used the same term "nerve block" regardless of the site of the injection. I have used the term for spinal injections as well as injections for nerves AFTER they have left the spinal column.

The only reason I am making this post is to clarify that I may have been guilty of using improper terminology not only in the past, but will probably do so in the future. I just don't want anyone to be mis-led if I use the wrong terms.

More than once this past year a Doctor has used the term "Nerve Block" when he really meant an Epidural Steroid Injection. I was told a nerve block was a diagnostic tool and then the procedure for an epidural was described. I did not realize the inaccuracy until I read the exchange of ideas on the subject here, between posters. I then knew I needed to research the topic more fully and if I do decide to get an epidural injection I will check to make sure Kenolog is not used as the steroid.

Most of us do not have a scientific or medical background and are just trying our best to be of service. I appreciate all of you guys more then you'll know.

I am editing because I just found this which adds to the confusion: http://apmspineandsports.com/diagnosis/epidurals/
"A selective nerve root block is a spinal procedure in which anesthetic is placed on a specific nerve root of the spine to help identify the exact source of leg or arm pain. The injection usually also contains steroid to decrease inflammation and pain. The injection is similar to a transforaminal epidural steroid injection, but in a selective nerve root block there is no attempt to have the medication enter the epidural space. Rather, the aim is strictly to cover the offending nerve root."

My husbands pain management doctor used the term "nerve block", no mention of steroids when he tried it in his feet. Totally painless according to my husband.

Did absolutely nothing in terms of pain relief, but certainly worth trying.

What works for some, doesn't for others.

Linda

Last Wednesday I ended up having epidural steroid injections targeting L5. I believe it was the lidocaine in the injection that was responsible for about 2 1/2 hrs of complete bliss until it wore off. It was amazing to be free of my symptoms for the 1st time in 15 months.

The reason I attribute the relief to the Lidocaine is because the effect was temporary and the steroid takes some time (days to week) to kick in. What I question is how a local anesthetic applied to my back effect the nerves in my legs and feet? It wouldn't have lessened swelling or inflammation or any impingement.

I am so confused. If you have any ideas please give your input. My follow up appointment is in 2 weeks and I would love to understand this before I go.

would be better for a nerve block? A Neurosurgeon or a Sports Medicine, Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation doctor? Both are good doctors.

After having chronic burning for over a year (it is never gone except when I sleep and who knows since I'm asleep? ) and having all types of tests to see if the cause is structural or other I have decided to go forward with this. My MRi's and flexion extension xray show that the area of L-4 L-5 S1 has issues that could be causing my symptoms. I am hoping that this may give me more data (and some relief) so that I will have a better idea how to proceed.

Thank you for your responses and concern. I will let you know how it goes and post the effects of this procedure. I am a little nervous, but the doctor who is doing the procedure is one of the few I trust.

Good luck!