03/17/2025
Thinking about getting injections for back pain? You may want to reconsider.
New research suggests these widely used treatments are no more effective than placebos, despite their increasing popularity and high costs. A panel of experts has reviewed the practice and raised serious concerns about its effectiveness and financial incentives driving its use.
Back pain is a global health issue affecting millions, leading to disability and economic strain. Many turn to spinal injections, such as epidural steroid shots and nerve blocks, for relief. However, a recent study published in The BMJ analyzed 81 trials with nearly 8,000 participants and found no strong evidence that these procedures provide significant pain relief.
Despite the lack of proof, the demand for spinal injections continues to grow. Researchers suspect that confirmation bias plays a role—doctors who administer these treatments often report more favorable results. Financial incentives may also be a factor, as these procedures generate substantial revenue.
This disconnect between research and practice raises concerns about the overuse of ineffective interventions. Experts recommend shifting focus toward evidence-based treatments, such as physical therapy, exercise, and cognitive behavioral therapy, which have shown better long-term results in managing chronic back pain. Healthcare systems may need to reconsider funding spinal injections in favor of approaches that truly improve patients’ quality of life.
