STEROID INJECTIONS

PURPOSE:  Steroids injected locally acto to relieve inflammation, thereby decreasing pain and swelling.  Injectable steroids as used in our office are given to reduce inflammation of joints and tendons, or for bursitis.

WHAT TO EXPECT:  Increased pain may occur at the site of the injection for one to two days.  Ice the area every three hours for 20 minutes until you go to bed.  If pain persists, relief may be obtained by the use of over-the-counter analgesics (Tylenol) or anti-inflammatory agents (Advil/Nuprin), and elevation of the affected extremity.  The beneficial anti-inflammatory effects begin about three days after the injection is given.

SIDE EFFECTS:  Very infrequently, localized lightening of the skin color (hypopigmentation) may occur at the injection site.

NOTE:  Depending on your diagnosis, there are a limited number of injections you may receive (your physician will inform you of this).  Usually they are limited to two in six months or three in one year.  Too many injections risk disruption of cartilage and breakdown of supporting tissue.

Systemic side effects are not common in joint injection due to the small dosage and infrequency of administration.  Although these compounds are not absorbed into your bloodstream, at least a two-week wait is recommended between injections.

Advise your physician if you are currently using blood thinners, have diabetes, or if you are pregnant. 

TYPICAL INJECTIONS: