Effect of epidurals on bone density

My endocrinologist told me not to get steroid injections, as they weaken bones.

Thank you

I’m having an updated bone scan for my osteopenia in December. I will post if all my injections have caused bone loss. I sure hope not, but steroids are always a risk!

Thank you, too.

They are safe if you only have them twice.

Unfortunately, steroids are a risk. After my former primary doctor did not refer me to a specialist, I went into full blown osteoporosis. Steroids did not cause the osteoporosis, they made the condition worse.

Fast forward to inoperable degenerative disc disease and several years of epidurals. The osteopororsis was so serious, I could no longer take epidurals and out of desperation found a chiropractor that practiced functional medicine. It took 2 full years of twice a week visits to stop the horrific pain, but the doctor did succeed in helping me. However, because of all the medicines that contributed to my osteoporosis, I had only two choices. Do nothing and one fall would end my life or take abdominal injections of Tymlos shots every other day for three months, followed by 18 months of daily injections. Although I no longer show osteoporosis, I am now on Prolea every six months.

Too many steroids will contribute to weakening your bones. This is the dilemma I now face. I have collapsed discs, L 2 & 3 in my spine, bone spurs and bulges, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis. Epidurals are the only way to alleviate pain. However, that will lead to the weakening of bones.

I suggest you find an honest chiropractor who specialized in functional medicine and try that alternative. It made a world of difference for my neck. Now, I have to start treatment on my back.

Wishing you the best on your journey to alleviate pain!

@4myhlth Do you mean 2 times, and never again?

Before taking any series of epidurals, it is best to see an osteoporosis specialist. They should advise you based on your individual medical history and needs.

@curlylocks7 thank you yes, asking first this time exactly what is in the proposed injection and systemic or localized effects on bone. It is possible all epidurals are not alike. Trying to break it all down, no pun intended. Was on Forteo for two years followed by a year from infusion based Reclast to maintain the gain. I really don’t know if my response to Forteo was blunted a bit. The question is worth asking. This seems to be an area of differing medical opinions. The Tymlos will be once per month at a provider office or center, if covered by insurance. Working with a recertification. It is worth noting that there is some degree of cardiac risk w Tymlos to balance against the falling risk. So I must be more careful w diet, etc.

@cman55 My endocrinologist told me to avoid all steroid injections with my osteoporosis, as they weaken bones. When approaching back surgery, bones need to be strong enough or the screws will not hold. I also need a shoulder replacement and the surgeon told me it would not "take" due to my severe osteoporosis. (two years of Forteo injections improved my osteoporosis to osteopenia in my spine and I am now taking a year of Evenity injections to see if my hips will improve.)