Corticosteroid Injections
Musculoskeletal (MSK) Services
Last updated: July 2026
Next review: July 2026
What is a Corticosteroid Injection?
A corticosteroid (sometimes called a cortisone injection) is an anti-inflammatory medicine that is injected directly into the area causing your symptoms.
It works by reducing inflammation, which can help relieve pain, swelling and stiffness. Unlike steroid tablets, the medication acts mainly in the treated area and is not the same as the anabolic steroids used by athletes or bodybuilders.
Why Might I Be Offered a Corticosteroid Injection?
A corticosteroid injection may be recommended to:
- Reduce pain and inflammation.
- Improve movement and function.
- Help you begin rehabilitation exercises.
- Support a quicker return to everyday activities.
- Help identify the source of your pain when the diagnosis is unclear.
A local anaesthetic is often given alongside the steroid to provide temporary pain relief immediately after the injection.
What Are the Benefits?
Many people experience:
- Reduced pain.
- Less swelling.
- Improved joint movement.
- Easier participation in physiotherapy or exercise.
- Better ability to carry out everyday activities.
The aim is to reduce inflammation and help “break the cycle” of pain.
Are There Any Risks?
Corticosteroid injections are generally very safe, but like all medical treatments they carry some potential risks.
Possible side effects include:
- Temporary facial flushing.
- Mild bruising or bleeding at the injection site.
- Temporary increase in pain for 24–48 hours.
- Small change in skin colour or thinning of the fat beneath the skin.
- Temporary increase in blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Temporary changes to menstruation.
- Temporary numbness or tingling if a nerve is irritated.
- Very small risk of tendon rupture.
- Very small risk of infection.
- Rare allergic reaction.
If the injection site becomes increasingly hot, swollen or painful, or you feel generally unwell, seek medical advice promptly.
When Should I Not Have an Injection?
A corticosteroid injection may not be suitable if you:
- Have an infection.
- Feel generally unwell.
- Are allergic to steroids or local anaesthetic.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have poorly controlled diabetes.
- Are due to have surgery in the same area.
- Do not wish to have the injection.
Your healthcare professional will discuss whether the injection is appropriate for you.
What Are the Alternatives?
Depending on your condition, alternatives may include:
- Physiotherapy.
- Exercise and rehabilitation.
- Activity modification.
- Anti-inflammatory medication.
- Lifestyle changes.
- Referral for a surgical opinion if appropriate.
What Happens During the Procedure?
The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Your clinician will:
- Explain the benefits and risks.
- Position you comfortably.
- Clean the skin with antiseptic.
- Carefully insert a fine needle into the affected area.
- Inject the medication.
- Apply a small plaster.
You may then be examined again before leaving the clinic.
Will the Injection Hurt?
Most people find the injection causes only mild discomfort.
The area may feel sore for a few hours afterwards, but this usually settles quickly.
After the Injection
If local anaesthetic has been used, you may notice immediate pain relief which wears off after a few hours.
The corticosteroid itself usually starts working within:
- 24–48 hours, although sometimes it can take a little longer.
The benefits often last for around six weeks, although this varies between individuals.
Looking After Yourself Afterwards
Following your injection, you may be advised to:
- Rest the area for a short period.
- Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
- Gradually return to normal activity.
- Continue any prescribed rehabilitation exercises.
- Attend physiotherapy if recommended.
If you receive any medical treatment within the following six weeks, let your healthcare professional know that you have recently had a corticosteroid injection.
Follow-Up
You may be offered a follow-up appointment to review your progress.
Some people improve after a single injection, while others may require further treatment depending on their symptoms.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice?
Contact your healthcare professional promptly if:
- The injection site becomes increasingly hot, swollen or painful.
- You develop a fever or feel generally unwell.
- You experience severe or persistent pain.
- You have concerns following your injection.
Further Information
Corticosteroid injections can provide effective short-term relief from pain and inflammation, helping many people return to normal activities and rehabilitation. They are most effective when combined with appropriate exercise, physiotherapy and self-management advice.
