If you have a narrowed foramen, would you have a transforaminal injection??

On one hand its where the pain should be coming from and on the other if you tighten the space by injecting fluid into it.. Dont you make it worse??

In that case is it better to do a interlaminar injection? or maybe go right to a RFA ??...

what to do?? argh..

thanks for any feedback

Joo

L4/L5 generalized disc bulge.
L5/S1 left subarticular protrusion with disc material crossing S1 nerve. central canal mildly narrow, left foramen narrowed, right foramen patent.

Well it is a good question and in theory it sounds good. The injection has 3 parts to it. It will numb the pain, it will ease the swelling and inflammation and it should help to lubricate the myelin (sheaths that cover the nerves).

It is a more conservative approach than surgery but it is not without it's risks. The interlaminar injection would be a similar approach with a similar outcome. RFA is yet again another approach that can be taken. I would try what they are suggesting and progress to the others if one isn't successful. They are all better alternatives to surgery.

Well.. my L5/S1 injection went well.. but my facet joint injection on my neck C5/C6 wears off after 3 months and now my neck is back to hurting me without relief ..argh..

I have to say being in pain SUCKS...
thanks for letting me vent..
wishing everyone a pain free day

J.