Overview
Joint injections are shots into a joint, such as the knee. They may be used to put in medicines, such as pain relievers.
A corticosteroid, or steroid, shot is used to reduce inflammation in tendons or joints. It is often used to treat problems such as arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis.
Steroids can be injected directly into a painful, inflamed joint. They can also help reduce inflammation of a bursa. A bursa is a sac of fluid. It cushions and lubricates areas where tendons, ligaments, skin, muscles, or bones rub against each other.
A steroid shot can sometimes help with short-term pain relief when other treatments haven't worked. If steroid shots help, pain may improve for weeks or months.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.