Injection Patient Information

This page explains typical benefits, risks, aftercare and suitability checks for ultrasound guided steroid (cortisone) and hyaluronic acid injections.

Benefits

• Reduce inflammation and pain to help you move and rehab
• Improve function where symptoms are driven by inflammatory change
• Support a clearer diagnosis when combined with ultrasound and clinical assessment

Risks & side effects (steroid / cortisone)

• Temporary pain flare for 24–48 hours
• Skin thinning or colour change at injection site
• Facial flushing
• Temporary rise in blood sugar (important for diabetes)
• Infection (rare but serious) — seek urgent advice if worsening redness, heat, fever, or increasing pain

Risks & side effects (hyaluronic acid)

• Temporary swelling or stiffness
• Localised soreness
• Allergic reaction (very rare)

Who may not be suitable (examples)

• Current infection or fever
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Recent fracture in the same area
• Significant bleeding/clotting disorders or certain anticoagulants (needs review)
• Recent steroid injection into the same region (timing matters)

Aftercare (typical)

• Keep the area clean and dry for the remainder of the day
• Avoid heavy exercise for ~48 hours (unless advised otherwise)
• Follow your rehab plan — injections work best when paired with progressive loading

FAQ

What are common side effects after a steroid injection?

Temporary pain flare for 24–48 hours is common. Rare risks include infection; seek urgent advice if symptoms worsen significantly.

What should I avoid after an injection?

Avoid heavy exercise for about 48 hours unless advised otherwise, then follow your rehab plan.

Do injections cure the problem?

They can reduce inflammation and pain, but outcomes are best when combined with rehabilitation and load management.