Corticosteroid injection therapy for overuse injuries.

Abstract

Local corticosteroid injection therapy may be considered for many conditions commonly treated by the primary care physician. Chronic overuse and flawed biomechanics may lead to inflammation in areas easily accessible to injected local corticosteroids, including bursae, tendon sheaths and joints. It is generally preferable to mix the steroid preparation with an anesthetic agent to minimize the injection pain, provide immediate symptom relief and confirm the diagnosis. Local complications of corticosteroid injection include tendon and ligament weakening, bacterial infections of joints and related structures, and subcutaneous tissue atrophy. Systemic complications are rare but reportedly include hyperglycemia and adrenal axis suppression.