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On day 9 after receiving cortisone injections into my si joints, my pain is back. I’m so disappointed! Anyone else experienced this and

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
NC

what to try next to alleviate pain. Dr says it is from osteoarthritis. I can’t take NSAIDS and don’t need to take much prednisone due to osteoporosis. I wonder if osteoporosis could make those si joints more susceptible to this condition I have now.

May 15
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Answer Summary

Members responded with empathy and shared personal experiences after someone expressed disappointment that cortisone injections into their SI... Read more

Members responded with empathy and shared personal experiences after someone expressed disappointment that cortisone injections into their SI joints stopped working after only 9 days. Several members offered practical treatment options to explore, including radiofrequency ablation (which helped multiple members), chiropractic adjustments with massage, Cortrophin gel, Cymbalta for pain management, and immunosuppressants like Cellcept, while noting that insurance often requires trying other medications first. A recurring theme was encouragement to keep advocating for yourself, consult a rheumatologist, and not lose hope since different treatments work for different people.

MyLupusTeam

That's really frustrating — you were so close to the two-week mark! It's completely understandable to feel disappointed when relief doesn't last as long as hoped.

Osteoporosis (bone loss) is actually a known concern with lupus and steroid use, and it can weaken bones and joints over time, so your instinct about the SI joints Show Full Answer

That's really frustrating — you were so close to the two-week mark! It's completely understandable to feel disappointed when relief doesn't last as long as hoped.

Osteoporosis (bone loss) is actually a known concern with lupus and steroid use, and it can weaken bones and joints over time, so your instinct about the SI joints isn't unreasonable to raise with your doctor. Since NSAIDs and higher-dose prednisone are off the table, here are some options worth discussing with your rheumatologist:

- Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) — an antimalarial that can help manage lupus-related inflammation
- Immunosuppressive medications — may help address underlying inflammation
- Physical therapy — gentle, targeted movement can improve joint support and reduce pain
- The RICE method — Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate for flare-ups of pain
- Osteopathy — a MyLupusTeam member found this very helpful for joint-related issues, noting it's worth seeking out a practitioner who performs manipulative therapy

Always check with your doctor before adding anything new, especially given the osteoporosis factor.

May 15
A MyLupusTeam Member

That’s encouraging Marie!

May 16
A MyLupusTeam Member

Frankie, this Si joint pain is usually referred pain from osteoarthritis of the spine and not related to steroids. Radiofrequency ablation, using heat to kill the nerves in the area, is sometimes used to treat it, so ask your doctor about that. I hope you get relief soon!

Immunosuppressants won't help.😘

May 16
A MyLupusTeam Member

See if you elegable to get on cortrophin gel shot yet. I can't do cortizone due to it makes me gain water weight. Cortrophin has been a God send but you may havt go on something else 1st talk to rheumatologist. I had a reaction to the other one too, don't give up. You'll find what works for you. Remember you are your own best advocate. I will be praying for you and the doctor's

May 15
A MyLupusTeam Member

Frankie, I am so sorry you're having so much pain. Those injections didn't work that well for me either as time went by. As @A MyLupusTeam Member mentioned, radiofrequency ablation is a great option. I've had that myself and it worked well for me. Hope you get some relief soon!💜

May 16

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