Neck ESI
 

Hi All,
I am new to this site. I am scheduled for ESI due to compression to my C6 nerve root. This is my first one into the neck area. Can someone tell me what to expect? Does the injection make you worse temporary and then feel better? How long did it make you feel worse before you feel better. One of my friend told me it made her worse for two weeks and that she needed to take off from work for two weeks. It also did not make her better. She ended up surgery. I am very scared.
Thanks

I went back to work the next day, didn't help or hurt, it was really no big deal, other than the first time it scared me to death.. lol... Do you have a fellowship trained pain Dr. doing the injection?

They are really no big deal. You are told to take it easy after the injection. Then you can return to work the next day. They will tell you it will take a few days to work. For me, they NEVER worked.

If you find that they don't work for you, do NOT let them do any more!!! Medical journal ALL say that if the first one doesn't work, do NOT let them do any more cause any subsequent ones will NOT work either. Some doctors like to tell their patients that they have to "build up" in the system, but that's a BIG LIE. They tell their patients that because they get between $1,500 to $2,500 PER INJECTION to do them!!! So if #1 doesn't work, don't let him do anymore. These injections are hard on the body.

I hope it does work for your sake and you get some relief. God bless. Hugs, Lee

hello numb
 

Hello, I understand about the ESI. I have had two cervical fusions. Even before I accepted treatment, I got a second opinion. This injection works for some, not for others. If it does not work, don't get another. I agree with leesa. I am sorry you are having to go through spinal problems. I do wish you all the best. Don't hesitate to google up this proceedure, they even have vidios of it. The ones that I had, didn't hurt. ginnie.

ESI response
 

Hi All,
I would like to thank you for your responses. My injection went well except i have a mild headache for almost a week, short period of red hot cheek. I had significant improvement in my shoulder and arm pain right the away. However, no significant pain and numbness reduction in my thumb and index finger yet. It's been about a week now. Hopefully more relief is on the way so that i don't need surgery.
For those needing this type of injection, please find an experienced doc. Neck ESI has more risks than the back.
Thanks.

Hi Numb
 

Glad the injection went well. I hope it didn't hurt during the proceedure. I am such a wimp as a rule. I hope that more relief is coming your way as a result. Be good to yourself, and take it easy. Maybe that headache will go away. ginnie

should i have a repeat ESI?
 

Hi All,
For those of you following my post, i am glad to tell you that i had about 60%to 70% improvement for my pain/numbness after the ESI in my neck. I also receive PT. It has been about 8 weeks from the injection. I am wondering whether or not i should have a repeat ESI to optimize the benefit. My phsical rehab doc recommend a repeat. Should i do it now or i should wait a bit longer? What is the general rule of thumb?
Your feedback is greatly appreciated!