Steroid Injections For Back Pain: Do They Really Work? Doctors Weigh In!

Back pain is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Many people take epidural steroid injections, a treatment in which steroids or corticosteroids are injected into the spine to reduce pain and inflammation. However, new research from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) suggests that these injections may offer only limited benefits for certain types of chronic lower back pain.

What the Research Says

A recent review published in Neurology examined whether epidural steroid injections are truly effective. Researchers analysed 90 studies conducted over 16 years, focusing on patients experiencing pain due to a pinched nerve (radiculopathy) or a compressed spinal cord or nerves (spinal stenosis).

The findings of the study show that while epidural steroid injections can provide moderate pain relief and reduce disability for some patients, the effects are generally short-lived.

- For patients with a pinched nerve in the lower back:

1. 24 per cent more people who received injections reported reduced pain compared to those who didn’t.

2. 16 per cent more experienced less disability for up to three months.

3. 11 per cent more reported reduced disability lasting six months or longer.

- For patients with spinal stenosis:

1. The injections helped with disability reduction but not pain relief.

2. 26 per cent more people who received injections reported reduced disability for up to three months.

3. 12 per cent more reported reduced disability for six months or more.

Despite these results, there is still uncertainty about whether these injections are beneficial for those with pinched nerves or spinal stenosis in the neck. The study also revealed that there is a lack of research on whether repeated treatments improve outcomes or help people return to daily activities or work.

Should You Get Steroid Injections for Back Pain?

Dr Carmel Armon, the study’s lead author, emphasized that while chronic back pain can significantly impact daily life, epidural steroid injections may only provide temporary relief in certain situations.

Dr Pushpa Narayanaswami, a co-author of the study, shared that more research is needed to determine the long-term benefits of these treatments and their impact on daily life.

Ways To Reduce Back Pain Naturally

If you're dealing with chronic back pain, there are several strategies you can try to relieve the pain:

1. Exercise Regularly – Engaging in low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and yoga can help strengthen back muscles and improve flexibility.

2. Maintain Good Posture – Sitting and standing with proper posture can reduce strain on your back and prevent further pain.

3. Stay Active – Prolonged sitting can worsen back pain. Try to take breaks, stretch, and move around frequently.

4. Apply Heat or Cold Therapy – Using a heating pad or ice pack can provide temporary relief and reduce inflammation.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight – Excess weight can put pressure on your spine, worsening pain and discomfort.

6. Try Physical Therapy – Working with a physical therapist can help you develop a customized plan to strengthen your back and improve mobility.

7. Mind-Body Techniques – Practices like meditation, deep breathing, and acupuncture may help manage pain perception and reduce stress.

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