Conditions We Treat With Steroid Injections

Clinically targeted injections for proven indications.

I provide steroid injections for the following conditions.
Each injection follows a medical assessment as accurate assessment directs more effective treatment.
Treatment is tailored to the joint and diagnosis. 

man holding painful shoulder

SHOULDER

Subacromial bursitis and impingement syndrome
Rotator cuff tendinopathy
Frozen shoulder (Adhesive capsulitis)
Acromioclavicular joint arthritis
Osteoarthritis
man holding painful elbow

ELBOW

Tennis elbow (Lateral epicondylitis)
Golfer’s elbow (Medial epicondylitis)
Olecranon bursitis
Hand shaded over carpal tunnel syndrome numbness

HAND & WRIST

Carpal tunnel syndrome
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
Trigger finger / trigger thumb
Basal thumb joint osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis
Gout

INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS

Rheumatoid arthritis flares
Gout

About Cortisone (Steroid) Injections

Reduced inflammation. Improved movement.

Cortisone injections are a well-established medical treatment.
They are used to reduce inflammation and pain.
I will offer them where evidence shows they can be beneficial.

Steroid injections are not a magic bullet but are used as part of an overall management plan.
They are offered when research supports effectiveness. I can also suggest other evidence-based treatment options for your condition during the consultation.

How Cortisone Injections Work

Cortisone is a strong anti-inflammatory medicine.
It targets inflammation at the exact problem site.
This helps reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness.

The medicine is injected directly into the joint. It can also be injected around tendons or bursae.
This focused approach limits whole-body side effects.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections

  • Fast and effective pain relief

  • Local treatment at the source

  • Reduced inflammation

  • Improved joint movement

  • Avoids long-term painkillers

  • May delay or prevent surgery

Mixed With Local Anaesthetic

Cortisone is often mixed with a local anaesthetic.
This provides quicker pain relief after the injection.
It also helps confirm accurate placement.

The anaesthetic may work within minutes.
This effect usually wears off after several hours.
The steroid effect then builds over days.

What Happens During the Injection?

The skin is cleaned thoroughly.
A fine needle is used for accuracy.
Local anaesthetic is often included.

The procedure takes only minutes.
Most patients tolerate it well.
You can usually drive and go home immediately afterwards.

How Effective Are Cortisone Injections?

Cortisone injections are effective for many patients.
However, they are not 100% effective for everyone.

Response depends on:

  • The specific condition

  • Severity of the problem

  • Duration of symptoms

  • Individual response

Some patients experience excellent relief.
Others may notice only partial improvement, or only for a short time.

Are Cortisone Injections Safe?

Cortisone injections are generally safe.
Side effects are usually mild and temporary.

I use careful technique and evidence-based dosing.
Each injection follows a clinical discussion.
Benefits and risks are explained clearly.

Possible risks include:

  • Temporary pain flare

  • Skin thinning at the injection site

  • Infection, which is rare

  • Short-term rise in blood sugar

All risks are explained before treatment.

Click here to read about the the potential side-effects in more detail.

How Long Does Relief Last?

Pain relief often begins within 3-4 days.
Maximum benefit is usually felt within 2 weeks.

Relief typically lasts several weeks to months.
The exact duration varies by patient and condition.
Some patients require no further treatment.

Repeat injections may be considered carefully. These are spaced appropriately for safety.

Usually, cortisone injections are not advised within 3 months of the last injection.

What Cortisone Injections Do Not Do

Cortisone injections do not cure underlying disease.
They do not reverse arthritis or structural damage.
They are part of a wider management plan.

They work best alongside:

  • Physiotherapy

  • Activity modification

  • Rehabilitation exercises

  • Other medication or treatments including acupuncture

Is a Cortisone Injection Right for You?

Not every painful condition needs an injection.
Some improve with time or conservative treatment.

A consultation helps decide the best option.
Treatment is always tailored to your condition.
Your safety and long-term outcome come first.

Call 01932 344 004 to book an appointment.