Steroid Injection

PhysioSW19 offers injection therapy for patients who are having difficulties managing their problems with conservative treatment. Injections are administered by our qualified injection physiotherapist Charlie.

What are the benefits of having an injection?

A corticosteroid or Ostenil injection can help to reduce the irritability and severity of your symptoms to allow continued rehabilitation.

Corticosteroid injection:

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications use to alleviate symptoms associated with joint and tendon injuries. They are a common injection in musculoskeletal medicine and not to be confused with anabolic steroids.

Ostenil injection:

What is Hyaluronic Acid/Ostenil Plus? Hyaluronic acid is a long polysaccharide chain, that is naturally present in the human body. It is found in the highest concentrations of fluids in the joints. OSTENIL® PLUS is an isotonic solution of highly purified hyaluronic acid, developed specifically for the treatment of osteoarthritis

Frequently asked questions

When should I not have an injection?

Charlie will discuss your past medical history in detail to ensure the treatment is appropriate. You should avoid the injection if you:

• Infection on your skin or anywhere else in your body
• Allergies to medications to be injected
• Feel unwell
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Under 18 years old

What are the possible side effects?

These reactions are rare to very rare and will be discussed in detail during your appointment.

• Pain flare (48 hours)
• Infection
• Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Excessive sweating
• Allergic reaction
• Skin changes

Is the injection painful?

You should expect to feel some pain during the procedure. All efforts will be made to minimise discomfort. Whilst the area that is going to be injected can remain sore for the next 48 hours, it is usually safe to take over the counter pain relief to relieve symptoms. (Subject to your own allergies)

How fast does the injection work?

You will probably not notice any benefits immediately after the first injection, but you should gradually start to feel less pain and stiffness over the next few weeks. Continued rehabilitation is advised.

How many injections can I have?

This will depend on severity of your symptoms and effects of the first injection. However, there are no specific limits on the amount of injections.

Can I still have the injection if I am on blood thinning medications?

If you are on Warfarin your INR will have to be checked within 48 hours before having the injection and then rechecked within 72 hours post injection. If you are on Rivaroxaban, Apixaban, Dabigatran or Edoxaban we would normally ask you to stop taking the medication 12 hours before having the injection, provided that your underlying condition is stable, and your GP/Consultant is agreeable for the injection to take place.