Steroid Injections for Knee Pain
What You Need to Know
Chronic knee pain caused by arthritis or inflammation can significantly affect daily life. One of the commonly used treatments for relief is a steroid injection into the knee joint. These injections can provide both pain relief and help in confirming the diagnosis, especially when symptoms are unclear.
Why Are Steroid Injections Used?
The effects vary from person to person. Some patients experience no relief, while others benefit for several months.
- Diagnostic Tool – The response to the injection helps your doctor confirm the source of the pain.
- Pain Relief – It can reduce inflammation and discomfort, with relief ranging from temporary to long-lasting.
Steroid injections serve two main goals:
How Is It Done?
The procedure is quick and typically done in a clinic setting:
- The area is cleaned using sterile precautions.
- A fine needle is inserted into the joint to deliver a mix of steroid and local anesthetic.
- A small dressing is applied, which can be removed after 48 hours.
There are no cuts or stitches, and it’s usually well tolerated.
What Are the Risks?
As with any procedure, there are some potential risks, including:
- Pain or swelling after injection (a flare-up)
- Bleeding or bruising
- Infection (rare but serious if it occurs)
- Allergic reaction
- Skin changes (e.g., lightening of skin, fat loss at the site)
- Tendon weakening or delayed side effects
Post-Injection Care
To ensure the best results:
- Rest the knee and avoid heavy activities for a few days
- Ice the area for 1–2 days
- Maintain normal knee movement (don't stop walking unless advised)
- Watch for warning signs like redness, fever, or worsening pain
If you notice signs of infection or feel unwell, contact your doctor immediately. Early infections are treatable with antibiotics, while late or severe cases might need surgery.
Final Thoughts
Steroid injections can offer effective relief from knee pain and inflammation when used carefully and monitored by a specialist. However, they are not a cure and should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your condition.
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