Expert: JM Starkman, MD - 11/8/2009

Question
I had my son 4 months ago, and recently I have been getting sharp stabbing, nerve pain at the site where the epi was. It hasn't been there since his birth, just started happening about 1 week ago with pressure at site, but now there is stabbing pain every now and then about every 3-5 mins or if move. I know its nerve pain that much is sure. Is this a real concern or just inconvenice?

Answer
Congratulations on the birth of your son!

As far as this unusual pain goes, since so much time has passed since you were given the epidural I really think it's unlikely to be related. However, there are rare cases of epidural catheter tips breaking off and being retained by the patient---something anesthesiologists are quite mindful of.  Get a consultation with the anesthesiologist who was responsible for your epidural and have him review your record to ascertain the catheter was removed with the tip intact.  Ask him for any further advice he may have with respect to your pain.  If this persists you may consider being evaluated by a qualified pain expert.