JOINT INJECTIONS FOR PAIN RELIEF
Soft tissue and joint steroid injections for joint pain, arthritis, tendonitis and more by Graeme Payne, Lead Physiotherapist and Independant Prescriber.
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Steroid injections are routinely used as an effective treatment for inflammatory painful soft tissue and joint conditions. They are often recommended for people with conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis and tendinitis. The injections are used to break the cycle of inflammation in order to aid mobility and function of the joint and surrounding soft tissues. Also to make it more comfortable to do the exercises needed to strengthen the joint.
​What will be injected?​
​The affected joint or soft tissue will be injected with a small volume of steroid, this should help reduce inflammation locally. Sometimes this will be alongside a local anaesthetic that acts as a painkiller and may provide immediate temporary pain relief. The injection will be given based on anatomical landmarks​.​
How long does it take to feel a reduction in symptoms?
Local anaesthetics can reduce your pain within a few minutes of the injection. The steroid affect will take slightly longer to occur, usually 1-2 weeks. It is advised that you take a few days of relative rest following the injection.
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How long do the effects last?
Steroid injections usually last for up to 3 months, however every patient is different.
What is the process?
Advanced Physiotherapist and Independent Prescriber Graeme Payne has many years of experience treating patients with joint and soft tissue injuries and disease. He will complete a full assessment to conclude whether an injection is the right treatment for you. You will be advised of the risk factors and be provided the appropriate advice to make an informed decision.
Risks and side effects of steroid injections
Most people have steroid injections without any side effects. It is normal to experience slight discomfort and pressure during the time of the injection.
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Post injection pain within the first 24 hours can occasionally occur. This usually settles by itself within a few days, however taking painkillers such as paracetamol may help. There is a risk of infection at the site of the injection or in the joint. With steroid injections there is a small risk of thinning or colour changes locally in the skin or underlying fatty tissue at the injection site.
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It is important not to overuse injections and it is advised by clinicians not to have more than 3 per year in the same area. A minimum of 6 weeks between injections is also recommended.
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Cortisone injections are used to treat:
Frozen Shoulder Glenohumeral Joint (GHJ) Osteoarthritis Subacromial pain/rotator cuff Arthritic Knees Arthritic thumbs Wrist joint Ankle joint Carpel tunnel Olecranon bursa De Quervains Trochanteric bursa Knee Joint for Osteoarthritis Plantar Fachia Acromioclavicular AC joint (shoulder) pain Tennis Elbow Golfer's elbow Elbow joint Trigger finger Trigger thumbs Toes Finger and thumb joints Ankle arthritis Bunion pain/arthritis Morton's neuroma