I have been sick with a bad back (probably nerves pinched between
vertebrae) and neither my doctor or a chirpractor seem to be able to
help (although chiropractors have helped in the past). I have been
treated for prostate cancer with internal radiation  (brachytherapy)
and external radiation. Because of rectal bleeding twice, my doctor
perscribed cortenemas which seem to relieve the backpain symptoms
temporarily, suggesting that cortisone might help. But my doctor
refuses to give me oral cortisone, maybe for good reason because of
osteoporosis.
Somebody suggested a cortisone injection to the spine. My doctor did
not react when I asked him. Could anybody tell me about this procedure
and how can I get it without my primary physician's reccommendation?

Might want to check out www.losethebackpain.com... although I've never
used the program, the concept of muscle balance is VERY real and works
(www.flextend.com is one that works for carpal tunnel syndrome).

Check out my response to http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=373825

Your doctor may not know of this procedure.  It is referred to as
Spinal Never Root Injection (SNRI) and is performed by
neuro-radiologist under a fluoroscope.  I live in the Washington DC
area and have been to four spine surgeons before one of them even
mentioned this procedure.  A series of three injections, spaced about
two weeks apart are usual.  As I understand, this procedure is not for
lower back pain caused by arthritis.  I am told it is most effective
when pain radiates down the leg(s) and is caused by stanosis
(spelling)or the narrowing of the spinal canal.  I have just finished
my second of the three and feel that it has helped.  I have also
benefited from spinal injections administered by anestiologists.  Hope
this info helps.

Ira

Thanks, Ira, for your comment. Mine seems to be lower back pain caused by arthritis.