What you need to know:
How does it work?
The injection fluid is commonly mixed with local anesthetic or a steroid on it’s own.
The injection helps to reduce inflammation in the area by inhibiting collagen production. This reduces the swelling and redness caused by the bodies’ natural response following an injury.
How long does it last?
This varies on the condition of being treated as well as the individual person. The reduction in pain may last a few weeks up to several months. In some cases, it may completely solve the issue or have very little benefit.
What should I consider?
- Are steroid injections painful? Pain levels vary from person to person. It is usually described as a sharp stinging sensation followed by a feeling of pressure.
- Can I continue normal activities straight after? It is recommended that you rest your foot for 24 hours following the injection. You should not participate in any high intensity sports activities for a week after the injection.
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Can I drive after the injection? No. You should arrange for a lift home and rest following your injection.
- Please note* Injections are not currently performed under ultrasound guidance. Therefore conditions to be treated with steroid injections are limited at present.
What Are the Potential Side Effects
Side effects of steroid injections are rare but must be considered.
- Post-injection steroid flare. This is an intense but temporary worsening of symptoms with swelling, warmth and bruising that may last 24-48 hours.
- Infection is very rare but symptoms of redness, swelling, pain and generally feeling unwell may be signs of infection. You should seek immediate help if you think the injection site may be infected.
- Facial flushing may occur 24 hours post-injection.
- Loss in skin pigmentation or atrophy of the skin may occur at the injection site.
- Feinting. This can be a natural response following an injection.
- Lowered immune system. The steroid medication is absorbed into the body and can temporarily lower your immune system. This may make you more susceptible to catching colds and infections or recovery can take longer.
- In breast feeding ladies, there may be a short period where mild is not produced.
- Anaphylactic reaction is a very rare but extremely serious allergic reaction. This occurs very quickly following the injection.
