Day of steroid injection

Overview

A steroid injection is a procedure in which a doctor uses a needle to deliver anti-inflammatory medicine directly into a painful joint, tendon, or bursa. The medicine—a corticosteroid—works by reducing swelling and calming the immune response, which can ease pain and improve movement.

Yes, steroid injections are a very common treatment for many types of joint and soft tissue pain, such as arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis.

Steroid injections are used for adults with inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, and plantar fasciitis. They are rarely needed in children.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Before the injection: pain, swelling, stiffness, or tenderness in the joint or tendon.
• After the injection: some people have a temporary increase in pain or swelling for 24 to 48 hours.
• A feeling of pressure or fullness at the injection site.

Symptoms in children

• Steroid injections are not commonly used in children, but if they are, the symptoms are the same as in adults.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have more joint damage or thin skin, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• They may also take blood thinners, which raises the risk of bleeding at the injection site.

Causes

Main causes

• Inflammation from conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, or gout.
• Overuse injuries that cause swelling and pain in a joint or tendon.

Risk factors

• Repeated stress on a joint from sports, work, or daily activities.
• Age – joints and tendons become more vulnerable over time.
• Previous injuries or surgery in the same area.
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain, redness, warmth, or fever after the injection.
• If you cannot move the joint at all or it feels unstable.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have persistent joint or tendon pain that does not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers.
• If your regular doctor has recommended a steroid injection and you want to discuss it.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine the painful area. They may also order imaging tests to look for signs of inflammation or damage.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray – to see bone changes and joint space narrowing.
• Ultrasound – to look for fluid, swelling, or tendon tears.
• MRI – if more detail is needed about soft tissues.

What to expect at your appointment

Before the injection, the doctor will clean the skin and may numb the area with a local anesthetic. They will then insert a thin needle into the joint or tendon and inject the medicine. You may feel a pinch or pressure. The whole procedure takes just a few minutes.

Treatment

A steroid injection is one part of a treatment plan. It works best when combined with other measures like rest, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. The goal is to reduce inflammation so that you can move more comfortably and start exercises to strengthen the area.

Self-care at home

• Rest the area for 24 to 48 hours after the injection. Avoid heavy lifting, running, or high-impact activities.
• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the injection site for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day if it feels sore.
• Do not soak the injection site in water (bath, pool, hot tub) for at least 24 hours.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend a course of physical therapy or gentle stretching to improve range of motion. You may also be advised to take over-the-counter pain relievers (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) if needed, but always check with your doctor first, especially if you take other medicines.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely the first choice. It might be considered if the steroid injection does not provide relief after several weeks, or if there is a structural problem that needs repair, such as a torn tendon or advanced joint damage.

Living with this condition

For the first few days after the injection, plan light activities and avoid anything that puts stress on the treated area. Most people can return to normal routines within a week. Listen to your body – if it hurts, stop and rest.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid repetitive movements that strain the joint or tendon.
• Use supportive shoes or braces if recommended by your doctor.
• Take breaks during long periods of standing or sitting.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fats) may help your overall joint health. Gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can keep the joint moving without putting too much stress on it. Always ask your doctor or physiotherapist what activities are safe for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with pain can be frustrating and affect your mood. A successful injection can bring relief and improve your quality of life. If you feel anxious or depressed, talk to your doctor – they can connect you with support.

Prevention

Not all conditions that lead to steroid injections can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by avoiding overuse and keeping your joints and muscles strong. Warm up before exercise, use proper technique, and take rest days.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that limits daily activities.
• Joint stiffness and loss of movement.
• Muscle weakness around the affected area.

Long-term outlook

For most people, a steroid injection brings significant short- to medium-term relief. It is a safe and effective way to manage pain while you work on strengthening the area. Many people return to their normal activities with less discomfort.

Find support

International organisations

• Arthritis Foundation
• Versus Arthritis (UK)

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