Ultrasound Guided Steroid Injections

Ultrasound Guided Steroid Injections – Patient Information

Please note: This guide provides general information about Ultrasound Guided Injections. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.

What is an Ultrasound Guided Injection?

An ultrasound guided injection involves using ultrasound imaging to precisely guide a needle to the affected area (such as a joint, tendon, or bursa). A combination of cortisone (a steroid) and local anesthetic is injected to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

This technique helps treat conditions like:

  • Arthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Tendonitis

By reducing pain and inflammation, the injection can also enhance the effectiveness of physiotherapy.

What is Cortisone?

Cortisone is a synthetic form of cortisol, a hormone your body naturally produces to help manage stress and inflammation.

  • Cortisone is a catabolic steroid, meaning it breaks down tissue.
  • It’s effective at reducing acute inflammation, but may delay healing in chronic injuries.
  • Evidence suggests cortisone may not be ideal for long-term use or some chronic conditions (e.g. tennis elbow).

Cortisone can still be helpful for short-term relief, especially in cases of:

  • Severe inflammation
  • Situations requiring quick symptom relief (e.g. travel, special events)

Before Your Appointment

Please notify us in advance if:

  • You are taking blood thinners (e.g. Warfarin)
  • You have diabetes

* You are pregnant or may be pregnant

Preparation:

  • Arrive 20 minutes before your appointment.
  • Bring any recent imaging reports (Ultrasound, CT, MRI) from the last 6 months.

What to Expect During the Procedure

  • Duration: 15–30 minutes
  • You may be asked to change into a gown.
  • The area will be cleaned and scanned using ultrasound.
  • A local anesthetic will be applied before the steroid injection. The radiologist may remove joint fluid for testing if necessary.
  • Only the patient is permitted in the room. No photography or video allowed.

After the Procedure

  • You may experience numbness or pain relief for several hours due to the local anaesthetic.
  • Avoid driving for at least 6 hours if local anaesthetic was used.
  • No heavy lifting or strenuous activity using the affected area for 10 days.
  • Resume light daily activities as tolerated.
  • A pain flare may occur in the first 24–48 hours. Use Panadol and cold packs if needed.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

Most patients experience minimal side effects, but you should be aware of the following:

  • Temporary pain flare (24–48 hours after)
  • Facial flushing/redness
  • Rise in blood sugar (especially in diabetics) for up to a week
  • Bruising at the injection site Very small risk of infection
  • Rare allergic reaction

⚠ Contact your doctor or nearest emergency department if you experience:

  • Increased or unusual pain
  • Redness or swelling at the injection site
  • Fever, chills, or sweats
  • New or worsening symptoms

Results and Follow-Up

  • Your images and report will be sent directly to your referring health practitioner.
  • Reports are also available via the RMI patient portal.
  • Please make a follow-up appointment within 7 days with your doctor to discuss results and next steps.

Are There Alternatives to Cortisone Injections?

Yes. Cortisone is not your only option. Alternatives include:

  • Physiotherapy and strength exercises
  • Anti-inflammatory medications (oral or topical)
  • Lifestyle modifications, footwear changes
  • Other non-steroidal injections (e.g. PRP, hyaluronic acid)

Discuss all options with your clinician before proceeding.

Cost & Appointment Changes

  • For costs, including any out-of-pocket expenses, contact our concierge team.
  • To cancel, please give at least 48 hours’ notice to avoid a cancellation fee.

This allows us to manage our Specialists time and also to offer appointments patients on waiting list

Respect and Acknowledgement

RMI acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and pays respect to Elders past, pres ent, and emerging.