I am considering ablations. I had the steroid shots at T10 and L4-L5. I saw my pain mgt guy before Christmas and we discussed next steps regarding ablations. I've had some relief at T10 but not the others. He told me I need to repeat the shots wherever I want the ablations. In other words, to verify the correct nerves to ablate they need to react to the shots in a positive way. I have a lot of instrumentation and the doctor who is doing the shots has commented that it might be difficult to find the right nerve because of the metal. I told him I'd get back to him on my next regular visit in a couple weeks. I guess the risks are low to keep trying the shots and do the ablations. On another note I just got my Medicare statement with the cost for the eight total shots I've received so far. Provider charged $14,000 for 8 shots, no other charges. Medicare paid $535 on $682 approved. I owe $0. Last comment here... when I get the numbing shots in the lower back I hardly feel anything. My surgery has apparently numbed much of that area. Six months of pain relief would truly be a blessing.

The same thing is happening to me. I had a left hip replacement in March. My hip is painful, and I have pain in my right leg shin. My hip surgeon says there is nothing wrong with me, that the hip looks fine after an MRI done recently. I am thinking of seeking another opinion, but I have already had 2 MRI's this year. I don't know what to do, but I can't have any quality of life living in pain. I see a pain management dr., but he is only giving me a very low dose of pain meds. They aren't helping very much. I am wondering should I seek the opinion of a back surgeon? I am so glad you got relief. I wish you luck with your ablation.