This page focuses on alternative therapies. For a comprehensive look at managing neuro-inflammation and pain, please visit our Treatment Plan page.
Invasive interventions, such as surgery and epidural corticosteroid injections (ESI), should be avoided with Arachnoiditis. As we work for formal medical recognition, we must prioritize educating ourselves and our providers on the most current treatment methods. Bookmark this page for the latest tools and updates for your success.
BLOOD HORMONE LEVELS
Before starting any hormone supplements, it is recommended to consult with your physician and have your blood hormone levels tested. This is crucial as chronic pain can deplete the endocrine system, and the tests will check how effectively it is working. To treat the neuroinflammation from arachnoiditis, it is necessary to take these tests.
The recommended hormone test includes cortisol, DHEA, pregnenolone, and testosterone. In addition, the Inflammatory Markers blood test should include ESR, CRP, and cytokines. Other blood tests that should be taken include blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
It's important to note that a hormone deficiency may cause increased impairments and pain, while an elevated inflammatory marker calls for more aggressive control of spinal canal inflammation. For more information, download and print Bulletin 57 - Blood Test for AA. As always, consult your physician before taking any new vitamins or supplements.
DIETARY MEASURES
The best diet for Arachnoiditis is a low carb, high protein diet. Stay away from processed sugars, foods that are known to cause inflammation such as cheese, eggs, and dairy, and high carbohydrate foods.
12 Foods That Heal the Inflamed Body
ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy Resources Dr. Tennant (Arachnoiditis Hope) offers a deep dive into electromedical treatments in this four-part PDF series. Click each link to download:
Part 1: Electric Current | Part 2: Electromagnetic | Part 3: Blockage/Retention | Part 4: Guidance on Electromedical Meaures
IMPLANTED MEDICAL DEVICES
Considering an implanted device? Because these are risky, invasive procedures, they should be a last resort. Please take the time to read our articles on Pain Pump Do's and Don'ts and Spinal Cord Stimulators for Arachnoiditis. It is highly recommended that you research these technologies thoroughly and only work with surgeons who have a proven understanding of Arachnoiditis.
What to do if you're in a flare
Adhesive Arachnoiditis (AA) is an inflammatory disease that can flare or progress unexpectedly. To prevent deterioration, you must consistently build a 'better and better' management program. If you feel your condition is worsening, please take these immediate steps:
The ESI "Black Box" Warning & Your Rights
Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs) are a standard "go-to" for back pain, but for those with Arachnoiditis, they carry catastrophic risks. Understanding the official warnings is your best tool for advocacy.
1. The Physician’s Duty to Warn
When a drug carries an FDA "Black Box" warning—the most serious alert—the administering physician has a legal and ethical duty to disclose it.
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Informed Consent: Your doctor must tell you that these drugs are not FDA-approved for spinal use and have been linked to paralysis, stroke, and death.
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Manufacturer Ban: Pfizer (Depo-Medrol) explicitly states their product "must not be used" for epidural or intrathecal injection.
2. The Link to Arachnoiditis
The FDA’s 2014 safety review identified 41 cases of Arachnoiditis caused by these injections. The preservatives (like benzyl alcohol) or the steroid crystals themselves act as neurotoxins, triggering the inflammatory scarring of nerve roots.
3. Risks of Epidurals & Lumbar Punctures
It isn't just ESIs. Any procedure that enters the spinal canal can be a "trigger event":
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Epidurals (Anesthesia): A "wet tap" (accidental puncture) can introduce chemicals into the subarachnoid space, sparking inflammation.
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Lumbar Punctures (Spinal Taps): Even a diagnostic tap can cause microscopic bleeding or trauma to the arachnoid lining.
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For Existing Patients: If you already have Arachnoiditis, any new needle entry can act as a "second hit," causing the disease to progress from stable to debilitating.
4. Summary for Advocacy
If a provider recommends a spinal procedure, ask these three questions:
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"Does this medication carry a Black Box warning or manufacturer contraindication against spinal use?"
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"Are you aware that lumbar punctures and epidurals can trigger or progress Arachnoiditis?"
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"As my physician, how are you fulfilling your duty to warn me of these established risks?"
Resource: FDA Safety Communication on Epidural Corticosteroids
