Corticosteroid (Steroid) Injections

Corticosteroid injections, often called “cortisone shots,” deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory medication (usually combined with a local anesthetic) directly into a joint, bursa, tendon sheath, or soft-tissue area.

 

How they work
Steroids reduce inflammation and swelling quickly by suppressing the body’s immune response in the injected area. This can break the cycle of pain and inflammation, allowing patients to participate more effectively in physiotherapy and return to activity.

 

Common indications
Shoulder impingement / subacromial bursitis
Knee, hip, or ankle arthritis flares
Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or other tendinopathies
Trigger finger or De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
Ganglion cysts (aspiration plus steroid)
Plantar fasciitis or trochanteric bursitis

 

Benefits
Rapid pain relief, often within a few days to weeks
Improved range of motion and function
Can be performed in clinic with minimal downtime

 

Potential risks and side effects
Temporary pain flare (24-48 hours) in 5-10 percent of patients
Facial flushing, insomnia, or mild elevation in blood sugar (especially in diabetics)
Skin thinning or depigmentation at the injection site
Rare but serious: infection, tendon weakening/rupture (with repeated injections), or cartilage damage
We generally limit injections to 2-3 per year per site to minimize long-term risks

 

What to expect
The procedure takes 5-10 minutes (however 30 minute appointments are booked to facilitate appropriate care). Local anesthetic is used first. Most patients can drive home and resume light activities the same day. We provide detailed post-procedure instructions, including a short period of relative rest followed by guided rehabilitation.