Corticosteroid injections treat a number of conditions, including tendinitis, acne and carpal tunnel syndrome. MayoClinic.com defines corticosteroids as compounds that mimic the effects hormones on the body, which are naturally produced by the adrenal glands. Generally, corticosteroids--oral, inhalation, topical and injection-- are the first-line of defense in a series of mild to severe diseases but they are not without their risks. Users experience any side effects that become bothersome or severe should contact a health care provider immediately for treatment.
Pain
Upon injection of a corticosteroid, the medication works to reduce inflammation and promote healing, the American Academy of Dermatology states. Pain, however, is a common side effect at the injection site where the surrounding tissue will become tender and movement may cause moderate to severe pain. MayoClinic.com recommends protecting the injection site for a day or two. If injection was in the shoulder region, recipients should avoid heavy lifting. During bouts of tendinitis or when a joint is injected, patients should stay of their feet. The pain can often be quelled by applying ice to region and taking a mild pain reliever like acetaminophen.
Infection
When pain increases and redness and swelling last longer than than 48 hours, an infection may be lurking. In some cases, infection-causing bacteria may have entered the injection site causing the region to become increasingly sore and may or may not produce pus. Infection usually requires a course of antibiotics to help eliminate bacteria and encourage the healing process. A 2006 National Institute of Health study found, however, that no infections, whether superficial or within the injected tissue, made corticosteroid use more risky than beneficial--specifically in minimizing the pain of arthritic joints. Development of an infection is relatively minor if injected properly and followed-up with a physician.
Shrinking of Soft Tissue
In instances of acne corticosteroid injection treatment, the shrinking of unsightly blemishes and large scars is a welcomed side effect, the American Academy of Dermatology says. In the treatment of other conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, however, the shrinking of soft tissue can prove problematic as it can create stiffness, pain and trouble with mobility, according to MayoClinic.com. In some instances, the thinning is present in the nearby bone causing osteoporosis, tendon weakening and even nerve damage if the puncture goes through a nerve ending.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Prednisone and Other Corticosteroids
- American Academy of Dermatology: Treating Severe Acne
- MayoClinic.com: Cortisone Shots
- "International Orthopaedics"; Infection in Primary Hip Arthroplasty After Previous Steroid Infiltration; Ramankutty Sreekumar, Raj Venkiteswaran, and Videsh Raut; March 2006
- American Academy of Dermatology: Acne Scars
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