? facet injections

ClassicZippo · #1 03-02-2007, 02:15 PM

I had facet injections this morning.I am now having wave-like cramps,pain and increased numbness to both of my calves and shins.Is this normal?

Kim · #2 03-02-2007, 10:57 PM

I remember cramping yes and some numbness around the injection site but I would be very concerned about the numbness in your calves and shins. I would not think that should be happening right after the injection.
I could be wrong and hope that I am but I suggest calling your PM doc or whoever did the injection and getting their opinion on this.
Hope this helps and that you feel better soon

ClassicZippo · #3 03-03-2007, 02:17 AM

Good morning,Kim
I have had chronic numbness to my lower legs and feet,particularly my left for more than 2 years now.However,I've never had wave-like numbness like I experienced post-facet injections.It seems to have settled down although I am having boring/searing nauseating pain across my low back.I take Demerol (B.I.D & B.I.D prn)and Flexeril at night and once the spasms and pain settle down,I can usually get 5 - 7 hours of sleep at night.I have taken extra Demerol and Flexeril yesterday and early this morning,but I am only able to get it to settle for about 2 hours

.The anesthesiologist said to take it easy for a few days...now I know why.

Kim · #4 03-03-2007, 03:59 AM

Yes I do remember that the pain flared up for several days after the injections. I had to be pretty much on bedrest the first day and then very light activity the next few days.
Hope you calm down and feel better soon. Do they have you on any Neurontin or Lyrica or anything of that nature? That type of medication might help to get rid of part of the nerve pain which it sounds like what you are experiencing now

ClassicZippo · #5 03-03-2007, 03:42 PM

I am not on Nerontin or Lyrica at the present time. My doc is reluctant to prescribe anything,tries to minimize my pain level and makes me feel like I am med-seeking(like I love feeling like a stoned,drooling moron

).I do plan on asking her about it next visit.She stated to me last spring "you have had a back problem for years,no one cares and you are no ones priority".At least she sent me for MRI,xrays, & appt. w/ pain specialist and ortho guy.My last doctor wouldn't refer me to anyone or for any testing.The state of our healthcare in Canada is appalling.Hence the increasing popularity of "medical tourism".There has been some recent talk of OHIP paying for procedures out-of-country, but I'm not holding my breath.BTW,I was relieved that the increase in pain I am having is "normal".
Deb

Bionic Michelle · #6 03-05-2007, 09:16 PM

I hope you're feeling better by now. I had a bad week following both my injections. Definately increased pain med need! No fun, but I hope you get relief. Did you feel the nerve getting irritated as the needle was in there? Mine did, and my leg burned something awful for a while. It calmed down after a while though, so hang in there!

ClassicZippo · #7 03-06-2007, 08:40 AM

Hi Michelle
I am feeling MUCH better now.I have an overall decrease in pain from a pre-injection standpoint.I am keeping fingers crossed that it works for a few months.The numbness and pain to my left foot has actually increased,but it is much easier to tolerate at the moment.
Regards
Deb

Kim · #8 03-06-2007, 09:39 AM

Good to hear that Zippo glad that you are seeing improvment. AS far as the meds go I mentioned they are not narcotics, classified as anti seizure meds but they have shown to be very effective in cases of treating nerve pain. I cant imagine why any doctor would hesitate to order these meds unless it was a case that it was contraindicated in that patient.
Hope you continue to do better as you go on