Steroidal Injections

Short-Term Symptom Control, Used Carefully and Selectively

Steroidal injections are sometimes used to reduce inflammation and symptom flare-ups in selected musculoskeletal conditions. While they can provide meaningful short-term relief for some patients, they are not a cure, and they are not suitable for everyone.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, steroidal injections are approached with care and restraint. We recognise that many people:

• Have concerns about steroids
• Worry about side effects or repeated injections
• Prefer to avoid injections unless clearly justified
• Want to address the underlying cause, not just suppress symptoms

For these reasons, steroid injections are considered only when appropriate, and always as part of a broader medical plan.

Understanding Common Concerns About Steroids and Injections

It is common for patients to ask:

• Are steroids harmful?
• Will injections weaken my joint or tendon?
• Will I become dependent on injections?

These are valid concerns.

Steroidal injections can reduce inflammation and pain, but:

• Effects are typically temporary
• Repeated or frequent injections may carry risks
• They do not repair tissue, correct alignment, or restore strength

Clear discussion and appropriate case selection are essential.

What Steroidal Injections Are Used For

Steroidal injections may be considered when inflammation is a significant contributor to symptoms, such as in:

• Inflamed joints
• Irritated bursae
• Certain tendon or soft-tissue conditions
• Nerve-related inflammatory pain in selected cases

The goal is to reduce inflammation enough to allow movement, rehabilitation, or recovery to progress.

When Steroidal Injections May Be Considered

A steroid injection may be discussed when:

• Symptoms significantly limit daily function
• Pain flares prevent participation in physiotherapy
• Other conservative measures have not provided sufficient relief
• Imaging or clinical findings support an inflammatory component

Suitability is assessed individually after medical consultation.

Understanding the Limitations

It is important to understand what steroid injections do not do:

• They do not correct mechanical or structural problems
• They do not strengthen muscles or improve movement patterns
• Benefits may wear off over time
• Over-reliance may delay more effective long-term strategies

For this reason, injections are viewed as supportive measures, not definitive treatment.

How The Pain Relief Clinic Uses Steroidal Injections

At The Pain Relief Clinic, steroid injections are:

• Offered only after proper medical assessment
• Considered alongside imaging findings where appropriate
• Used to support, not replace, rehabilitation and recovery
• Accompanied by discussion of alternatives and expectations

The emphasis is on helping patients make informed decisions, especially if they are hesitant about steroids or injections.

For Patients Who Prefer to Minimise Steroid Use

Many patients actively wish to:

• Avoid repeated injections
• Reduce medication or steroid exposure
• Focus on long-term solutions

In such cases, alternatives may include:

• Targeted physiotherapy
• Other non-invasive medical treatments
• Load management and rehabilitation strategies
• Careful monitoring without injection

These options are discussed openly during consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are steroid injections safe?

They can be safe when used appropriately and selectively. Like all medical treatments, they carry potential risks and are not suitable for everyone.

Will one injection permanently fix my problem?

No. Steroid injections aim to reduce inflammation and symptoms temporarily. They do not correct the underlying cause.

How long does relief last?

If effective, relief may last weeks to months. Duration varies between individuals and conditions.

Can steroid injections damage joints or tendons?

Repeated or inappropriate use may increase risk. This is why injections are used cautiously and not as routine treatment.

Do I need imaging before a steroid injection?

Imaging may be helpful in some cases to confirm diagnosis and guide decision-making, but this depends on individual circumstances.