Telehealth Consultation Denial of Steroid Prescription for Back Pain
A 36-year-old woman, diagnosed with Hashimoto's disease and scoliosis, has recently been experiencing increased back pain after painting her son’s room. This pain had been a recurring issue for her over the years, stemming from a deteriorating disc in her lower back. She is currently on medications including Venlafaxine, Slynd, and Levothyroxine. Seeking relief without the hassle of going to urgent care, she opted for a telehealth consultation. However, during her appointment, the physician seemed to treat her as if she were merely seeking drugs. Although she understands that many practitioners encounter such situations, she felt she had not provided any justification for this assumption. After discussing her medical history and previous treatment with steroids for 3-7 days, which had effectively resolved her inflammation, the doctor reacted strongly. He expressed disbelief and stated that prescribing steroids for back pain contradicted national medical guidelines. The call concluded without her receiving the relief she was hoping for, leaving her to wonder whether his statements hold any validity. Is it accurate to say that steroids should never be prescribed for back pain?
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 11:20:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel frustrated after your telehealth consultation, especially when seeking relief from pain that you’ve experienced for a long time. Let's clarify the role of steroids in treating back pain and outline some potential next steps to address your discomfort.
Key Points:
- Steroid Use for Back Pain: Steroids can be prescribed for certain types of back pain, particularly when inflammation is a significant factor. However, broader guidelines often recommend caution in their use unless specific criteria are met.
- Alternatives for Pain Management: There are several other effective approaches to managing back pain, especially with your existing conditions.
Explanation:
Steroids, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation and may be beneficial in cases of herniated discs or severe inflammation. However, they are not typically the first-line treatment for all types of back pain due to potential side effects and the need for careful consideration of the underlying cause.
The physician's hesitance may stem from guidelines that encourage strategies including physical therapy, non-opioid pain relievers, and lifestyle modifications before resorting to steroid use. The goal is to find a balance between pain relief and minimizing risks.
Next Steps:
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Manage Pain with Over-the-Counter Options: Start by using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen (if appropriate for you and without contraindications). Make sure you follow the dosage instructions on the label.
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Focus on Gentle Movement: Engage in light stretching or low-impact activities (like walking) to help maintain mobility without exacerbating your pain. Avoid positions or movements that significantly worsen your discomfort.
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Consider Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying a heat pack to your back for 15-20 minutes may help loosen tight muscles, while cold packs can reduce inflammation if there's swelling.
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Keep a Detailed Symptom Log: Document your pain levels, triggers, and any relief strategies that work. This can be helpful in any future medical consultations, including follow-up discussions about your pain management.
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Seek Additional Opinions or Referrals: If your pain continues to be unmanageable, consider seeking a second opinion. A referral to a pain management specialist or a physical therapist could provide additional strategies tailored to your situation.
Feeling unheard can be discouraging, but focusing on proactive management can help you regain control and improve your quality of life. Let me know if you have further questions or need more assistance!
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