The news has been filled with reports from a contaminated batch of cortisone medication used in large part for epidural steroid injections. Many patients have suffered and some died as a result of fungal infection from the contaminated shots.
Now there is another reason to be wary of epidural steroid injections. A recent report has found that patients who have epidural steroid injections have a higher chance of sustaining a vertebral fracture of the spinal column. Spinal compression fractures are a common problem that can lead to pain and disability. Most patients who have spinal compression fractures have osteoporosis, a condition that causes weakening of the bone.
As with any treatment, there are certain risks and possible benefits. It is important that doctors are aware of these potential problems, and patients make an informed decision about their treatment.
Sources: Steroid Injection Linked to Increased Risk of Bone Fractures
