Steroid Injections Specialist

What are steroid injections?

Also known as corticosteroid injections, steroid injections refer to several types of treatments that can help reduce the pain that a variety of underlying conditions may cause. The different types of steroid injections include cortisone, hydrocortisone, and prednisone. 

These medications reduce inflammation, which contributes to symptoms like pain, redness, warmth, and swelling. Steroid injections decrease the chemicals responsible for inflammation, allowing you to experience effective pain relief. 

What conditions do steroid injections treat?

Steroid injections are versatile and have a wide range of effective applications. At Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, the team uses steroid injections to address conditions like:

• Back pain, including sciatica
• Hip pain
• Bursitis
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Tendonitis

If you suffer from pain, the team can determine if steroid injections are right for you. Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine offers in-office diagnostics and works with each patient to develop the most effective treatment plan.  

Are steroid injections safe?

Steroid injections are a safe and effective way to address particular types of pain. Like most treatments, steroid injections can produce certain side effects. The possible side effects of steroid injections include:

• Irritation or pain near the injection site
• Thinning of the skin near the injection site
• Insomnia
• High blood sugar

Most of the side effects of steroid injections are short-lived. If you suffer from an underlying condition like diabetes or have concerns about possible side effects, the specialists at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine can help you decide if this is the right treatment for you. 

What can I expect from steroid injections?

Prior to the injection, your doctor may recommend you stop taking certain medications like blood-thinners to reduce your risk of bleeding or bruising. Your doctor also performs a thorough examination to determine the location of your pain. 

During the procedure, your doctor cleans the area near your injection site before administering the steroid. In some cases, your doctor may use a topical anesthetic to numb the area. 

Your doctor might also use an ultrasound or some other type of imaging device to guide the injection to ensure the medication is placed in the right spot. After the shot, you may experience warmth or discomfort near the injection site. 

Your doctor may recommend applying ice and reducing your activity for a day or two. Although steroid injections aren’t for everyone, they are a simple and reliable solution for pain relief. 

To learn more, book an appointment at Alpine Orthopedics and Sports Medicine by phone or request an appointment online today.