Hi,

I have similar dilemma - herniated disc, pain that comes and goes in neck and upper mid back area. I take Mobic which helps reduce the inflammation in my back as I also have arthritis.

About two years ago, my PM doctor recommended me epidural injections which really did work temporarily. It lasted up until now. I am now back to taking vicodin until I seek other treatment. I am not sure if my PM doctor will offer the epidural injections again (it's a very time consuming procedure). Maybe I need to go to a spine specialist where they do this type of thing on a daily basis but where I go, the PM doctor has to coordinate with a hospital that is quite far away and you have to go for three consecutive week visits. You also need someone to take you home. It only takes about 20 minutes for the entire procedure once in the operating room. They sedated me a little before injecting the epidural and a flouroscope is used so the doctor gets the exact nerve.

It is worth a try if your doctor feels it is appropriate for you. Then you may not need narcotics and sleeping pills.

Let us know what you decide to do. Hope this info helps.