Expert: Dr Ian Jackson - please note UK based - 2/6/2009

Question
my child was born 12 years ago . i received an epidural during labour . the net day the anethetist came round and said that due to the dip in my spine he had to try almost a dozen times to insert the needle . back pain later was mild what i thought was normal but in the last 2 to 3 years the pain in that part of my back is increasing a course of muscle relaxants and being off work is also incresing . could there possibly be a link to the epidural i recieved .

Answer
Hi Arlene
The evidence is that epidurals do not cause this type of problem and your pain is usually the result of wear and tear on your back. This is especially likely if you do have a curvature in your spine.
I too have back problems and have found exercise to be the best cure - swimming, cycling and gym work.
Kind regards
Dr Ian Jackson