If you’re considering a cortisone injection, it’s completely natural to wonder whether the procedure is painful. The short answer is: most patients experience minimal discomfort, and any brief sensation is well managed by our clinicians at Alton Pain Clinic.
What Does a Cortisone Injection Feel Like?
During a cortisone injection, you may notice a sharp scratch as the needle enters the skin, followed by a mild pressure or burning sensation as the corticosteroid medication is delivered into the joint or soft tissue. This typically lasts only a few seconds.
At Alton Pain Clinic, all injections are performed under ultrasound guidance, which allows our clinicians to place the needle with precision — reducing the number of passes needed and minimising discomfort throughout the procedure.
How Do We Minimise Pain at Alton Pain Clinic?
- A local anaesthetic is often mixed with the corticosteroid to numb the area quickly
- Ultrasound guidance ensures accurate needle placement first time
- Our experienced clinicians use fine-gauge needles to reduce tissue trauma
- You’ll be positioned comfortably throughout, and our team will talk you through every step
Is There Any Pain After a Cortisone Injection?
Some patients experience a temporary ‘post-injection flare’ — a short-lived increase in pain and inflammation in the treated area — for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. This is a normal response and typically settles quickly. Applying an ice pack and resting the area can help.
Within a few days, most patients begin to feel the anti-inflammatory benefits of the corticosteroid, with pain relief often lasting several weeks to months.
Key Takeaways
✓ Most patients find cortisone injections only mildly uncomfortable |
✓ Ultrasound guidance at Alton Pain Clinic improves accuracy and reduces discomfort |
✓ A local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before or during the injection |
✓ A temporary post-injection flare can occur but usually resolves within 48 hours |
✓ Pain relief typically begins within days and can last several months |
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, please consult a qualified clinician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive home after a cortisone injection?
In most cases, yes. However, if a local anaesthetic has been used around a joint in the leg or foot, we advise you to arrange transport home as a precaution. Our team will advise you specifically at the time of your appointment.
Do I need to take painkillers before a cortisone injection?
This is not usually necessary. However, if you are particularly anxious about discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter painkiller such as paracetamol beforehand. Please inform our team of any medications you are taking.
Is a cortisone injection painful for knee injections specifically?
Knee injections are among the most common procedures we perform at Alton Pain Clinic. With ultrasound guidance and a local anaesthetic, the vast majority of patients tolerate knee cortisone injections very well, with minimal pain during the procedure.