Comprehensive Guide to Cortisone Injections (Steroid Injections) for Musculoskeletal Pain Relief

Understanding Cortisone Injections

At The Carter & George Practice, we recognize the impact that musculoskeletal pain can have on your daily life, limiting your mobility and hindering your overall well-being.

Our dedicated sports medicine team, led by expert sports doctors, offers a range of advanced treatments to address pain and promote optimal recovery. One such effective intervention is the use of cortisone injections (or steroid injections) a proven method for providing relief from various musculoskeletal pathologies.

What Are Cortisone Injections?

Cortisone/Steroid injections, also known as corticosteroid injections, involve the administration of a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint (intra articular injection) or tissue (local steroid injection).

Steroid medications, typically a synthetic form of cortisol (a natural hormone in the body), works to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions.

Conditions Treated with Steroid Injections:

  1. Arthritis:
    • Osteoarthritis and other painful or swollen joint
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis and other Inflammatory Arthritis
    • Psoriatic Arthritis
  2. Tendonitis:
    • Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
    • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
    • Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
    • Achilles Tendonitis
  3. Bursitis:
    • Hip Bursitis
    • Shoulder Bursitis
    • Knee Bursitis
  4. Inflammatory Joint Conditions:
    • Synovitis
    • Ankylosing Spondylitis

How Steroid Injections Work:

Steroid injections start to exert their therapeutic effects by:

  • Reducing inflammation: Steroid injections play a role in inhibiting the production of inflammatory substances, providing rapid relieffrom pain and swelling.
  • Alleviating Pain: By targeting pain receptors and reducing inflammation, cortisone injections offer effective pain relief.
  • Promoting Healing: Corticosteroids can enhance the natural healing process by minimizing inflammation.

Our Approach at The Carter & George Practice:

At The Carter & George Practice, we prioritize a patient-centred approach to musculoskeletal care.

Our sports medicine doctor, Dr. Daniel Broman, specializes in administering cortisone injections with precision and expertise, under ultrasound guidance. Here’s what sets us apart:

  1. Personalized Treatment Plans: Our sports medicine doctor will conduct a thorough examination, review your medical history, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
  2. State-of-the-Art Facilities: The Carter & George Practice is equipped with advanced medical facilities to ensure that you receive the highest standard of care in a comfortable environment.
  3. Comprehensive Consultations: We believe in transparent communication. During your consultation, we’ll explain the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of the steroid injection, addressing any concerns you may have.

What to Expect During the Procedure:

  1. Preparation: The area to be injected will be cleaned, and a local anaesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort.
  2. Injection: Using ultrasound for precision, our sports medicine doctor will administer the steroid injection directly into the affected joint or tissue.
  3. Post-Injection Care: Following the procedure, you may be advised to rest, avoid strenuous activities, and apply ice to the injection site to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

Benefits and Risks:

While a steroid injection offers a significant benefit in managing musculoskeletal pain, it’s essential to consider potential risks, including:

Benefits:

  • Rapid pain relief
  • Improved joint pain and function
  • Enhanced quality of life

Risks:

  • Temporary increase in pain
  • Risk of infection
  • Skin discoloration at the injection site

*Please note that repeated injections carry increased risk of tissue damage and bone density complications. If appropriate, this will be discussed at your consultation.

Conclusion: Taking the Next Step Towards Relief

If you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain and seeking a solution that goes beyond conventional treatments, a cortisone injection at The Carter & George Practice may be the answer.

Take the next step towards relief and improved quality of life by scheduling a consultation with our sports medicine doctor, Dr Daniel Broman.

Contact us today on 01992 446725 to book your appointment and embark on a personalized journey to a pain-free, active lifestyle.