Corticosteroid Injections for Pain Relief

Understanding Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are a powerful anti-inflammatory treatment used to relieve pain and swelling in affected joints and tissues. These injections contain a corticosteroid medication that mimics the body's natural hormones to reduce inflammation. Many providers will also use a local anesthetic to provide more immediate pain relief.

This treatment is commonly used for conditions such as:

• Arthritis - including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Tendonitis - inflammation of the tendons.
• Nerve compression syndromes - nerve compression in the wrist, such as carpal tunnel and cubital tunnel syndromes.
• Bursitis - inflammation in the cushioning sacs around joints.
• Tenosynovitis - a condition that causes inflammation of the tendon sheath. Examples include trigger finger and De Quervain’s syndrome.
  
  

For many patients, corticosteroid injections help delay or avoid surgery while improving mobility and function.

Procedure for Corticosteroid Injections

Preparation:

• Your provider will evaluate your condition and may order imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound to guide the injection.
• The treatment area is cleaned, and a numbing agent may be applied to reduce discomfort.
  
  

Injection Process:

• A small needle is inserted into the affected joint or tissue.
• The corticosteroid medication is injected directly into the inflamed area or joint capsule.
• Injections are usually during your office visit in the outpatient clinic setting, often taking less than 10 minutes to complete.
  
  

After the Injection:

• Patients may experience immediate relief due to the anesthetic, with full effects appearing in a few days or up to 2 weeks.
• Some mild soreness at the injection site is normal and usually resolves within 48 hours.
• Avoid strenuous activities for the first 24-48 hours to allow the medication to take effect.
• Results vary, but relief can last from a few weeks to several months.

Benefits of Corticosteroid Injections

• Quick pain relief: Reduces inflammation and discomfort within days.
• Minimally invasive: Simple outpatient procedure with no incisions.
• Alternative to surgery: Effective for managing chronic pain without the risks of surgery.
• Improved mobility: Helps restore movement and function in affected areas.
• Complementary to other treatments: Can be used alongside physical therapy and lifestyle modifications.
  
  

Are Corticosteroid Injections Right for You?

Ideal Candidates:

• Individuals with joint pain, inflammation or swelling that does not improve with other treatments.
• Patients looking for a non-surgical option to manage pain and restore function.
• Those needing temporary relief while exploring long-term treatment options.
  
  

Not Ideal Candidates:

• Patients with severe joint damage that may require surgery.
• Individuals with infections or allergies to corticosteroids.
• Those who have received multiple steroid injections in the same area, as repeated use may weaken tissues.
• Individuals with uncontrolled diabetes as steroid injections may cause severe hyperglycemia.
  
  

Why Choose Riverside for Corticosteroid Injections?

• Experienced Specialists: Our team includes board-certified physicians skilled in pain management.
• Advanced Techniques: We use ultrasound-guided injections for precise placement and effectiveness.
• Comprehensive Care: Personalized treatment plans that include physical therapy and long-term management.
• Patient-Focused Approach: Minimally invasive solutions tailored to your lifestyle and needs.

At Riverside Health, we're dedicated to compassionate, collaborative care. We provide a wide range of services, from childbirth to end-of-life care, delivering over 2 million services each year. Our integrated network allows us to support you seamlessly through health, illness, recovery, and wellness. With top clinicians and advanced technology, we’re here for you at convenient locations close to home and work. Visit riversideonline.com.

If you're experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your treatment options, don’t wait to get treatment.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Primary Care – Schedule through MyChart or call your provider’s office who you go to for most health care needs.

Orthopedic Specialists - Schedule through MyChart or call 757-534-9988.
(804-693-0529 for Gloucester, 757-302-2700 for the Eastern Shore)

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.
If you’re not sure, call Riverside Nurse 24/7 at 1-800-675-6368