Steroid Injections Specialist

What are steroid injections?

Also known as corticosteroids, steroid injections are a type of medication that your doctor can administer directly to the source of your pain. Steroid injections work by reducing inflammation and the body’s immune activity contributing to your pain. 

Steroid injections for pain are not the same as performance-enhancing drugs. The different types of steroid injections include cortisone, prednisone, and hydrocortisone. 

The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of steroid injections offer fast-acting pain relief with no downtime.

What conditions are treated with steroid injections?

At Valdosta Orthopedic Associates, the team uses steroid injections to treat several different conditions, including:

• Gout
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Rotator cuff injuries

If you suffer from pain, the team can determine if steroid injections are right for you. Your doctor performs a thorough evaluation during your appointment, including a physical exam and a review of your medical history. 

In some cases, your doctor may perform imaging tests to get a better look at the location of your pain and rule out other possible contributors.

What should I expect from steroid injections?

Before receiving treatment, you may need to stop taking blood thinners or medications with a blood-thinning effect. Depending on the location of your pain, your doctor might request you change into a gown. 

After cleaning the injection site, your doctor administers the steroid directly to the location of your pain. In some cases, your doctor may perform fluoroscopy (X-ray) along with your injection to ensure they place the medication in the right area. 

Following the treatment, you may experience some discomfort at the injection site. You can return home immediately following the injection and return to your normal activities.

What are the risks of steroid injections?

Although side-effects are rare, steroid injection comes with certain risks like:

• Infection
• Skin discoloration
• Prolonged pain
• Nerve damage
• Cartilage or tendon damage

Frequent, repeated steroid injections can cause joint damage or cause your bones, tendons, or ligaments to weaken. Typically you shouldn’t get steroid injections more than three or four times a year.

When administered correctly, steroid injections can offer you a reliable option for effective pain relief. To speak to a doctor about treating your pain, book your appointment at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates by phone or schedule online today.