Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about steroid injections, referrals, consent, costs and what to expect on the day. If your question isn’t here, get in touch and a clinician will reply directly.
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your first appointment, grouped by topic. Can’t find an answer? Get in touch and a clinician will reply directly.
Before your appointment
We do not typically require a referral from a medical consultant or GP for you to access our services. However, in some cases, we may need to communicate with your doctor or request additional information from your GP to ensure the procedure’s medical safety.
We request patients to provide written consent for ultrasound-guided injections, as this procedure is invasive and involves the use of prescription-only medications. We believe it’s crucial for patients to have a comprehensive understanding of potential risks and side effects associated with the injection treatment.
In most cases, individuals experience minimal pain following the injection. Nonetheless, we recommend that, whenever possible, you arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to the appointment or use public transport.
Download our patient information sheet on musculoskeletal ultrasound scanning with a clinical specialist physiotherapist.
Steroid injections
It is generally advised that patients do not exceed a maximum of three steroid injections into the same anatomical location within a 12-month timeframe.
Usually noticed 48-72 hours after injection however, this can vary on a case by case basis.
The response to a steroid injection can vary based on several factors. Typically, steroid injections offer pain relief for a period ranging from six weeks to six months.
While steroid injections are potent anti-inflammatory pain relief, they are administered for various reasons, depending on the condition. In some cases, a steroid injection can offer a cure, while in others, it provides an opportunity to exercise and rehabilitate.
We provide a list of common side effects and risks, along with a consent form. However, if you have additional questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are more than happy to provide further details regarding any concerns you may have.
Patients often ask if steroid injections can trigger arthritis. In this context, arthritis refers to osteoarthritis, which is a medical term for wear and tear or degenerative changes within the tissues.
Costs and conditions
To find out the costs associated with steroid injections obtained privately, please visit our steroid injection page for costing details.
We have compiled a list of common medical conditions for which we offer steroid injections (please see the steroid injection page). However, if your diagnosed condition is not on our list, please get in touch using the contact form, and we can discuss whether we can provide you with suitable treatment.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Unfortunately, we are unable to administer injections during pregnancy due to a lack of research evidence confirming its safety.
Typically, we can offer injections to patients who are still breastfeeding. The Breastfeeding Network provides specific information and guidance regarding steroid injections while breastfeeding: Breastfeeding Network – Steroid Injections
Still have a question?
Send us a message and a clinical specialist physiotherapist will come back to you, or book an assessment with ultrasound and ask in person.
