Understanding Steroid Injections

Is a Steroid Injection Right for You?

Our commitment to your well-being begins with a detailed assessment by our clinicians. They carefully evaluate your medical history and symptoms, establishing a diagnosis and cause for your concerns. As part of our patient-centric approach, we discuss all available treatment options, including the potential benefits of a steroid injection. Detailed information about our pricing is available for your reference.

Why Consider a Steroid Injection?

Discover the compelling reasons to choose a corticosteroid injection

• Relief from Inflammatory Signs: Corticosteroid injections effectively target pain, stiffness, and swelling, providing relief that facilitates a return to normal activities and hobbies.
• Support for Rehabilitation: If pain inhibits your ability to perform prescribed exercises or rehabilitation, a steroid injection offers a viable solution. It aids in strengthening muscles and improving cardio-respiratory fitness.

Understanding the Risks Common and Rare Side Effects

While the majority of patients do not experience side effects, it is crucial to understand potential risks. Our pre-injection screening helps identify and mitigate these risks. Common side effects may include a flushed face, temporary bruising, and a transient rise in blood sugar levels for diabetics. Rare complications, such as infection, are extremely infrequent (about 1 in 10,000). Rigorous pre-injection screening, handwashing, and sterile techniques are employed to minimize these risks.

When to Avoid Steroid Injections Precautions and Contraindications

Considerations for avoiding cortisone steroid injections include

• Active Infection: If you have an active infection at the injection site or elsewhere in the body.
• Antibiotic Therapy: If you are currently undergoing antibiotic therapy for an active infection, considering prophylactic antibiotics may be a safer approach.
• Allergies: Individuals allergic to steroids or local anesthetic drugs should exercise caution.
• Anticoagulant Therapy: Those on anticoagulant therapy with a high INR may need to econsider.
• Pregnancy: Unfortunately, we cannot offer steroid injections to pregnant individuals due to unknown effects on the baby.
• Metal Implants: Presence of metal at the injection site, such as joint replacement or metal plates.
• Upcoming Surgery: If you have impending surgery in the injection area.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including HIV, may affect the safety or suitability of steroid injections.

During the Procedure What to Expect

A seamless and aseptic procedure is integral to our services

• Aseptic Preparation:  The injection site undergoes thorough cleaning with aseptic materials to minimize the risk of infection.
• Ultrasound Guidance: A sterile ultrasound gel aids needle advancement under ultrasound guidance, ensuring accuracy and minimizing risks.

After the Injection Managing Discomfort and Recovery

Understanding the post-injection phase is vital

• Discomfort Management: Discomfort during needle insertion is minimized with local anesthesia.
• Post-Injection Period: Pain relief for 1-2 hours with local anesthesia, followed by a period where regular pain medication may be resumed.
• Recovery at Home: Post-injection recommendations include refraining from driving, avoiding activities exacerbating pain, and gradually returning to normal duties.
• Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to assess your progress and determine if additional injections are necessary.

Alternatives to Steroid Injections Exploring Options

Consider alternative treatments or complementary approaches

• Rest: Allow your body time to heal by incorporating rest into your routine.
• Physiotherapy: Explore physical therapy tailored to your specific needs.
• Hyaluronic Acid Therapy: Hyaluronic Acid Therapy.
• Surgery: Consult your GP or a specialist for surgical options when necessary.

Cost Considerations: Private Steroid Injections in the UK

Explore the cost breakdown of our private steroid injections, which may vary based on the area treated and the number of injections required. Additional discounts are offered for multiple injections during the same appointment.

Dr. Divyang Shah

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