Corticosteroid ‘cortisone’ injections have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. They’re used to relieve painful, stiff and swollen joints.
What is cortisone?
Cortisone is a hormone that’s released into your blood stream when you’re stressed. In large quantities it can suppress your immune system’s inflammatory response. Synthesised cortisone is a powerful, longer lasting form of natural cortisone.
Which conditions can cortisone injections treat?
Cortisone shots can be used to improve pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, sports injuries and soft tissue injuries. This treatment won’t tackle the source of your symptoms, but it will alleviate your discomfort while we treat the root cause.
Mr Nirav Shah can also use cortisone injections as a diagnostic tool, to help identify the source of your symptoms and the most appropriate treatment.
Will I be suitable?
Most people are good candidates for cortisone injections. You may not be suitable if you’ve had an allergic reaction to steroids previously; you’re pregnant, breast feeding or trying for a baby; or you have an infection. Mr Shah will consider your medical history and current medications before recommending this treatment.
How long will it take?
A cortisone injection is a very quick procedure that usually takes around 5–10 minutes.
Will I need anaesthetic?
We can combine your cortisone injection with a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort during your treatment.
What are the side effects?
Side effects can include discomfort for a few days following your treatment; temporary bruising; flushing of the face; allergic reaction; infection; dimpling or discoloration around the injection site; increased blood sugar levels; and increased blood pressure. Mr Shah will go through all the relevant risks and side effects during your consultation.
Will I need to rest following my treatment?
You’ll be able to go home straight away and resume daily activities, including walking and driving. Just avoid any strenuous exercise for a couple of days.
How will I feel after the injection?
Your pain could get slightly worse for 2–3 days. This is completely normal and will quickly subside. Mr Shah will discuss your options for pain relief with you.
When will I see an improvement?
Your symptoms should start to ease after a few days and continue to improve over the next week. The effects of the injection can last weeks or months – it varies person to person.
Are the results temporary?
The effects of a cortisone injection are only temporary because we’re not treating the underlying condition. If your pain returns, we can retreat the same area. However, its more important to treat the source of your symptoms to achieve a long-lasting improvement.
How often can I have a cortisone injection?
You should wait at least six weeks between cortisone injections. In some cases, repeat injections may be recommended, for example when surgery isn’t an option.
How much do they cost?
Cortisone injections typically cost around £400 for new patients, which includes your appointment with Mr Shah, injection fee and the hospital’s charges. Check with your health insurance provider to see if your policy will cover the cost.
Consultation fee (new patients): £180–£230
Consultation fee (follow-up): £80–£100
Injection fee: £60–80 depending on the joint
BMI hospital fee: £95.50
How do I book a consultation?
To arrange a consultation with Mr Shah, call 01903 707373 or fill out our online contact form.
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