Steroid Injections (Cortisone)

Ultrasound-guided Steroid Injections

At Life Fit Wellness, we offer ultrasound-guided injections, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and efficacy. Ultrasound guidance allows our highly qualified and skilled practitioners to precisely target the affected area and administer the medication directly to the inflamed site. An ultrasound scan can also be used to assist with diagnosis prior to injection.

Enhanced Precision

Ultrasound imaging enables real-time visualisation of the injection needle, ensuring accurate delivery of the medication to the affected area.

Reduced Risk

With precise targeting, there is a reduced risk of complications, and nearby structures, such as nerves and blood vessels, can be avoided.

Improved Outcomes

Ultrasound guidance enhances the chances of successful treatment, leading to better and more long-lasting pain relief.

Link to all Ultrasound-Guided Injections

What is a corticosteroid injection?

Corticosteroid injections (otherwise known as cortisone or steroid injections) are a common and effective treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions affecting the upper and lower limbs. These injections contain corticosteroid medications, which are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in affected joints, tendons, bursae or in certain nerve conditions.

Conditions Treated with Steroid Injection

Condition	Description
Osteoarthritis	A degenerative joint disease causing pain and stiffness in joints like the knee, hip, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. In addition to steroid injections, other injections are available to help in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Tendinitis or Tendinopathy	Inflammation or degeneration of tendons, commonly affecting the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, or ankle.
Frozen Shoulder	Inflammation and contracture of the shoulder capsule causing pain and stiffness. A hydrodistension injection procedure is often recommended to treat frozen shoulder.
Bursitis	Inflammation of bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome	Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, causing pain and numbness in the hand and fingers.
Trigger Finger/Thumb	This condition causes a painful inflamed nodule affecting the finger tendons, resulting in a painful catching or 'triggering' when the fingers or thumb is flexed, often causing the digit to get stuck.
Plantar Fasciitis	Inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing heel pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis	An autoimmune disorder leading to chronic inflammation in multiple joints.

Risks and Side Effects

Risk	Description
Temporary Pain	Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site, which usually resolves within a day or two.
Infection	Though rare, there is a minimal risk of infection at the injection site.
Tendon Weakening	Repeated injections near tendons can occasionally lead to weakening or rupture of the tendon. This is why injections are carefully considered, and there is a limit to how many and how frequently they are administered.
Advancement of Arthritis	Repeated corticosteroid injections into a joint can result in advancement of osteoarthritis, and therefore, the number and frequency of injections are limited.
Allergic Reaction	In rare cases, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the corticosteroid medication.
Bleeding or Bruising	This is more common in patients who have blood clotting disorders or those taking blood-thinning medication. You should advise our clinic if this may apply to you before attending.
Skin Discoloration	Occasionally, patients will develop a small light dimple on the skin at the injection site, known as fat atrophy and skin depigmentation. This is generally seen as cosmetic and typically resolves with time.
Altered Diabetic Control	Patients with diabetes should have good control of their diabetes prior to a steroid injection. If in doubt, they should check with their doctor or diabetic nurse prior to injection.

Is a Cortisone Shot Right for You?

At Life Fit Wellness, we understand the impact musculoskeletal conditions can have on your daily life. Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections are a safe and effective treatment option to help alleviate pain and improve your quality of life. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your upper or lower limbs get in touch via our Injection Enquiry Form or call the clinic today, where a member of the reception team can guide your enquiry.

Please note that medical advice and treatment should always be provided by qualified healthcare professionals. This page is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.