Pain specialist question?

Are you aware that it’s not “just a shot” like a flu shot in the arm or backside?

From your description of your condition, this sounds like it will be a shot directly into your spine.

When I had this done it was done by a Board Certified Anesthesiologist.

That can be pretty costly but you don’t want just any old yahoo meandering around with a needle in that area, do you?

Be glad they didn’t sign you up for surgery. This is a pretty conservative procedure. And when it works, it works extremely well.

This is not the time for cheaping out.

As an interesting side note. The Doc who did my shot had a bonus. He was also an experienced accupuncturist. I barely felt a thing. I’d go back to him in a heartbeat. He was THAT skilled. Worth every penny.

They’re a lot more in your back than in your shoulder, knee, ankle or somewhere else because its going into your back which is way more complicated. If they have to use a fluoroscope or do more than just pop it in, its going to be more expensive. If they have to use an anesthesiologist, its going to be more expensive. There are a lot of things that add up to it costing a lot for this shot and most of it has to do with where they’re putting it. You don’t want anyone cutting corners or doing things on the cheap with your spine. Expect to pay for their expertise and time to put something in your back without hurting you.

This question says there is…a epidural injections?

Can it? Yes.

We recently had a blood draw for our son that “should’ve” cost about $700 but we were charged over $3400.

It is in your best interest to ask them how much they bill insurance for. They may have a “cash” price…meaning if you pay via your FSA asap they may charge you less.

I have a herniated disc and the first time cost me 2 months of pain and agony that almost led me to take my own life but I toughed it out and Pilates and Yoga finally cured me after 3 months of severe pain. The second time it happened I would have paid anything to eliminate that pain and got the steroid shot in the spine. I was tap dancing the next day. It works as IMO was worth the cost…every penny. Bear in mind it is administered by the Chief of the Pain Clinic with the assistance of X-ray to hit with pin point accuracy the spinal canal without doing more damage. Not something you want a nurses aid doing and that simply costs bucks. Do it only if you are in pure agony otherwise save your money and go on a nice vacation.

Keep in mind that it’s not just the shot but has to do with everything from x-rays and diagnosis to performing the procedure and after care/maintenance.