Steroid injections can cause temporary soreness, swelling or increased pain around the injection site. Other possible side effects include facial flushing, skin changes and a temporary rise in blood sugar. At Alton Pain Clinic, potential side effects and risks are discussed before ultrasound-guided corticosteroid treatment, with aftercare advice provided following the procedure. Serious complications such as infection are uncommon.
What Is a Steroid Injection?
A steroid injection delivers a corticosteroid medicine directly into or around the affected area. Corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation and associated pain.
Steroid injections are different from anabolic steroids. They are used medically to manage inflammation and musculoskeletal symptoms.
Depending on the condition, a corticosteroid injection may be considered for problems affecting the:
- Shoulder
- Knee
- Hip
- Elbow
- Wrist and hand
- Ankle and foot
- Other joints and soft tissues
The suitability of treatment depends on your symptoms, diagnosis and individual circumstances.
What Are the Common Side Effects of Steroid Shots?
Most people tolerate corticosteroid injections well, but side effects can occur.
Temporary pain or discomfort
It is possible to experience some soreness, tenderness or discomfort around the injection site after treatment. This is usually temporary.
Post-injection flare
Some people experience a temporary increase in pain following a steroid injection. This is sometimes referred to as a steroid flare or post-injection flare.
The discomfort usually settles within a few days.
Swelling around the injection site
Mild swelling can occur following an injection. Your clinician will provide appropriate aftercare advice based on the area treated.
Skin changes
In some cases, corticosteroid injections can cause changes to the skin around the injection site. These may include temporary lightening or thinning of the skin.
Facial flushing or warmth
Some people experience temporary facial flushing or a feeling of warmth following a corticosteroid injection.
Temporary increase in blood sugar
Steroid injections can temporarily increase blood glucose levels. This is particularly important for people with diabetes, who should discuss their condition with their clinician before treatment.
Infection
As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a small risk of infection. Your clinician will discuss relevant risks and precautions before the injection.
Is It Normal for Pain to Be Worse After a Steroid Injection?
A temporary increase in pain after a steroid injection can occur.
This may be a post-injection flare, which can cause the treated area to feel more painful or tender for a short period. It does not necessarily mean that the injection has been unsuccessful.
At Alton Pain Clinic, patients receive individual aftercare advice following treatment.
If pain is severe, continues to worsen or is accompanied by significant swelling, redness, fever or other concerning symptoms, seek medical advice.
How Long Do Steroid Injection Side Effects Last?
The duration depends on the type of side effect.
Minor soreness, discomfort or a temporary flare in pain usually settles within a few days. Other effects, such as skin changes, can take longer to resolve.
Your clinician can explain the potential side effects associated with the specific injection and area being treated.
Are Steroid Injections Safe?
Steroid injections are commonly used to manage inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions, but they are not suitable for everyone.
Before treatment, your clinician should consider factors such as:
- Your diagnosis
- Current symptoms
- Medical history
- Previous injections
- Current medicines
- Existing medical conditions
An assessment helps determine whether a corticosteroid injection is an appropriate treatment option for you.
What Happens During a Steroid Injection at Alton Pain Clinic?
At Alton Pain Clinic, an assessment is used to understand the source of your symptoms and determine whether an injection may be appropriate.
Ultrasound can be used to assess the affected area and guide the injection. During an ultrasound-guided procedure, the clinician can visualise the relevant structures and guide the needle towards the intended treatment area.
The procedure itself is generally quick, although appointment times vary depending on the assessment and treatment required.
What Should I Do After a Steroid Injection?
Your clinician will provide aftercare advice based on the injection you receive and the area treated.
You may be advised to:
- Rest the treated area for a short period
- Avoid strenuous activity for around 24–48 hours
- Gradually return to normal activity
Following the recommended aftercare can help support your recovery.
Steroid Injections at Alton Pain Clinic
If joint or soft-tissue pain is affecting your movement or daily activities, a musculoskeletal assessment can help identify the cause of your symptoms and determine whether a steroid injection may be appropriate.
Alton Pain Clinic provides ultrasound-guided hydrocortisone and steroid injections in Alton, Hampshire, with treatment tailored to the individual patient.
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
What are the most common side effects of steroid shots?
Possible side effects include temporary soreness, swelling, a short-term increase in pain, facial flushing, skin changes and a temporary increase in blood sugar. There is also a small risk of infection.
Can a steroid shot make pain worse?
Yes. Some people experience a temporary increase in pain after an injection. This is known as a post-injection flare and usually settles within a few days.
How long does steroid injection pain last?
Mild soreness or a post-injection flare commonly settles within a few days, although recovery varies depending on the injection and the individual.
Can steroid injections cause skin changes?
Skin thinning or temporary lightening of the skin can occur around the injection site in some patients.