What are Steroid Injections?

Steroid injections are a common treatment used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in specific areas of the body. These injections contain corticosteroids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.

How Do Steroid Injections Work?

Steroid injections work by delivering medication directly into the inflamed area. The corticosteroid helps to reduce inflammation, which can alleviate pain and swelling. The local anesthetic provides immediate relief by numbing the area. This combination can provide both short-term and long-term relief from pain.

When Are Steroid Injections Used?

Steroid injections are often used to treat a variety of conditions that cause pain and inflammation, such as:

• Arthritis
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis

Preparing for Your Steroid Injection

Before your injection, your doctor will review your medical history and any medications you are taking. Be sure to inform your doctor of any allergies, existing health conditions, or if you are pregnant. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.

The Injection Process

The procedure for steroid injections is straightforward and usually takes place in a clinic setting. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Positioning: You will be positioned comfortably, depending on the injection site.
2. Cleaning: The skin over the injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
3. Injection: The doctor will insert a needle into the targeted area and inject the steroid medication, often guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy for precise placement.
4. Post-Injection: A small bandage will be applied to the injection site.

After the Injection

After the injection, you may experience some immediate relief due to the anesthetic. The full benefits of the steroid may take a few days to become noticeable. It’s normal to have some soreness at the injection site for a day or two. Your doctor will provide specific aftercare instructions.

Possible Side Effects

While steroid injections are generally safe, some possible side effects include:

• Temporary pain or swelling at the injection site
• Skin discoloration or thinning
• Increased blood sugar levels in diabetic patients
• Infection (rare)
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Benefits of Steroid Injections

Steroid injections can provide several benefits, such as:

• Significant reduction in pain and inflammation
• Improved mobility and function
• Delay or avoidance of surgery
• Quick and effective relief