According to a new study, spinal epidural injections of steroids could help relieve low back pain, but for a short period. It has been reported by researchers that the injections do not provide much relief from pain linked to contraction of spaces around the spinal cord.

As per reports, similar conclusions were reached in some previous studies. However, others have revealed some benefits. In the meantime, epidural steroid injections have been used increasingly despite contradictory guidelines for doctors.

According to lead researcher Dr. Roger Chou, a professor of medicine at the Oregon Health & Science University, "These injections may not be as effective as perceived, and decisions should be based on an informed discussion of risks, benefits, and potential options, including surgery, medications and nonpharmacological options like exercise therapy".

The researchers reported in Annals of Internal Medicine that spinal steroid injections helped relief pain and also improved function in patients having ruptured discs, however, it didn’t work in patients suffering from spinal narrowing, or stenosis. According to experts, surgery is best for those with spinal stenosis.

It was found that injections also reduce the necessity of disc surgery, but again for short period.
As per researchers, it didn’t matter what steroid or injection technique was used. The report was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine on August 24.

It seems that the new analysis will probably not resolve any controversies regarding the health issue.