Joints and tendons are usually injected to reduce inflammation and thereby reduce pain. The injections are usually a combination of steroid and local anaesthetic. To get the best results from the injection it is critical that the needles is placed correctly. This usually necessitates that the injection is done in a radiology department as, X-ray, ultrasound or CT scanning is required to check the position of the needle. The choice of the imaging technique will be made by the doctor.

 

The cortisone does not take effect immediately. It is important that you rest the injected area for about 48 hours after injection. The maximum benefit may take several weeks.

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If you experience any unusual symptoms, fever or severe pain report them to your doctor immediately. Otherwise make sure you return to the doctor after the injection to assess its effectiveness and work out a plan of management.