Orthopedist | Orthopaedic Surgery of the Spine Questions Orthopedist

How long should I have to wait for epidural with excruciating sciatica?

I have stenosis throughout my spine but 3 months ago I woke up with awful pain and didn't know what it was. It's the same now 3 months later and I'm unable to get out of bed without help and can't rotate in bed and sometimes I can't reach due to it. It is radiating into my buttocks and back of both thighs, calves, and sometimes my feet. I am overly fatigued and don't get out unless I have to. I don't think that some doctors understand the severity of this type of pain. I had a bad tooth so I had to have that removed 2 weeks ago and free of infection before an epidural. The office called me yesterday and I can't get in for the epidural until Aug 4th., (does that seem like a long time out?) I'm shocked I have to go that much longer. I am including the impression of my MRI done 2 months ago. I don't know who to turn to and I'm on Medicaid and medicare which could be the Drs. don't care as much. I'm stumped and feeling left out. (Do I need a 2nd opinion?) Thank you so kindly

Female | 62 years old
Complaint duration: 3 months
Medications: Ativan,duloxetine,bupropion,amlodipine besylate,methadone
Conditions: Osteoarthritis, cervical/lumbar advanced stenosis, high blood pressure,depression,anxiety,fibro,sleep apnea

1 Answer

Orthopedist|OrthopaedicSurgeryoftheSpineOrthopedist
This sounds very difficult for you. I have many patients with the same complaint. I am unsure why it is taking you so long to receive the injection. However, once you receive the injection you should journal how long the injection works for you. This is diagnostic for providers, meaning that is helps pinpoint the source of your pain. It would also be worthwhile to obtain lumbar (low back) x-rays as your MRI report reveals listhesis or slipppage of one vertebra on another and could be indicative of spondylolysis or a break in the bone.