HomeAnswersNeurosurgeryneck painIs getting steroid injection before ablation for neck pain better?

Would it be better to get steroid injection before ablation for neck pain?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At October 1, 2016
Reviewed AtAugust 30, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have had right-sided chronic cervical neck pain for the past six months. My MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) revealed bulging discs, C6-C7 and C5-C6 osteophytes and severe bilateral stenosis, and typical degenerative disc disease. I visited a pain doctor hoping for a cervical steroid procedure but got a cervical medial branch block, which provided relief for only one day. He wants to do a facet radiofrequency ablation in the cervical area. Would it be better to do a cervical steroid injection before the ablation? Four years before, I had the same condition and was treated with cervical steroid injections. I am currently on Lidocaine patches and Voltaren cream. Also, taking Quinine sulfate for leg cramps.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help you. Four years ago, you had had the same condition and were treated with cervical steroid injections (three), and the pain disappeared. Now, the pain has reappeared. Hence, steroids may not be of use now. You have to undergo the following procedure. In the future, if you develop numbness or weakness, neither steroids nor ablation will help. You may need surgery.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. J. Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas
Dr. J. Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas

Neurosurgery

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