Traumatologue - Orthopédiste
Corticosteroid Injection
Services > Joint Injections > Corticosteroid Injection
Corticosteroids Injections
Corticosteroid injections are frequently prescribed medications due to their ability to decrease inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints and soft tissues that are affected.
What are Corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids, also known simply as steroids, are medications that replicate the actions of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by our adrenal glands. These injections are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and are utilized to reduce swelling and inhibit the immune system’s response to inflammation.
The Procedure of getting a Corticosteroid Injection
During your visit to the medical office, your doctor will clean the affected area and administer a local anesthetic to numb it and reduce discomfort.
The corticosteroid medication is then injected into the inflamed joint or soft tissue region.
They are commonly injected in various joints and body areas, including the shoulders, hands, hips, knees and feet.
Common Uses for Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections can provide rapid relief from pain and significantly reduce inflammation. They are particularly beneficial for conditions such as:
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis: These injections can help manage the chronic inflammation and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis conditions like gout.
-
Osteoarthritis: For those struggling with osteoarthritis, corticosteroid injections can offer temporary pain relief and improved joint function.
-
Soft Tissue Inflammation: They can also be used to relieve pain and inflammation in conditions such as Tendinitis that affect the tendons, and Bursitis that affects the bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the space between your tendons, joints, and bones.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you’re seeking relief from a persistent pain and inflammation in your joints or the surrounding tissue and considering a corticosteroid injection, don’t hesitate. Call us or book an appointment online today!
A: The onset of pain relief from corticosteroid injections can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Some patients may experience pain relief within a few hours of the injection, while others may take a few days to notice improvement. The full effects of the injection may not be apparent for up to a week.
A: The duration of pain relief from corticosteroid injections can vary widely, depending on the individual patient, the specific condition being treated, and the location of the injection. Some patients may experience relief for several weeks or months, while others may only find relief for a shorter period. In some cases, the effects of the injection may be permanent, particularly if the underlying condition is resolved.
A: The number of corticosteroid injections a patient can receive depends on several factors, including the specific condition being treated, the location of the injection, and the patient's overall health. In general, your orthopedic doctor will limit the number of injections to three or four per year in the same location to minimize potential side effects, such as tissue damage or weakening of the bones or tendons.
A: While corticosteroid injections are generally safe and well-tolerated, some potential side effects may include:
- Pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
- Skin discoloration or thinning at the injection site.
- Temporary increase in blood sugar levels, particularly in patients with diabetes.
- Temporary suppression of the body's natural corticosteroid production.
A: After receiving a corticosteroid injection, you can expect:
- Some mild pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site for a few days
- Possible temporary numbness or weakness in the affected area
- Gradual improvement in pain and function over the following days or weeks
- Ability to resume normal activities as tolerated, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and determine the need for additional treatments
Dr. Errachid will give you specific post-procedure instructions and guidance on managing any side effects.
A: Corticosteroid injections do not cure the underlying condition but can provide significant symptomatic relief from inflammation and pain.
FAQs
Contact
Quick Menu
Opening Hours
Monday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday : 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.