Over 500000 cortisone injections are performed annually on patients in the UK for joint and tendon problems. But is a cortisone injection cost in London worth it? Learn about cortisone injections’ benefits, side effects, and costs.

What is cortisone?

Cortisone injections contain a drug called corticosteroids. It is a group of steroid drugs that reduces inflammation, often known as an anti-inflammatory. However, cortisone differs from an anabolic steroid, which builds muscle in athletes and bodybuilders.

What is cortisone used for?

Cortisone is a drug that reduces inflammation. Lowering inflammation reduces pain and swelling in musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis or tendonitis.

How do we administer cortisone injections? 

We perform cortisone injections with a clean technique using antiseptic for the skin and sterile equipment. Targeting the joint or tendon with ultrasound improves accuracy. Also, seeing the needle with ultrasound means avoiding injecting other structures like nerves or blood vessels. Therefore, we regard ultrasound as essential for performing an injection. However, not every practitioner has the right skills for ultrasound injections. We suggest you ask these four questions before having an ultrasound-guided injection. 

Ultrasound-guided injection costs vary depending on the clinic. A higher price doesn’t necessarily equate with a better technique or effect.

What are the benefits of cortisone injections?

Cortisone injections reduce inflammation. This effect will help relieve pain and improve the movement of a tendon or joint. We use these injections together with an exercise program. The success of cortisone is dependent on how severe the condition is. For some, cortisone injections have no benefit at all. Overall, the effect of a cortisone injection varies.

There is good evidence that cortisone injections are helpful for hip, knee, and thumb arthritis. We also use cortisone injections for persistent pain after an ankle sprain. However, the effect of cortisone is short and lasts for only three months.

Similarly, cortisone injections improve pain for tendons, especially for plantar fasciitis, shoulder tendons, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and trigger finger. However, we should not use cortisone for tennis or Golfer’s elbow. Dr Masci has written a paper on the evidence for cortisone injections in tendonitis.

Finally, cortisone injections help other common injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or IT Band syndrome.

What are the risks of cortisone injections?

Cortisone injections are safe if used correctly. However, like any drug, cortisone has risks and side effects.

The most common side effect is increased pain before the cortisone works. We call this ‘steroid flare.’ It starts 6 hours after injection and lasts for up to 4 days. This study showed that an average cortisone flare lasts for four days. Therefore, it is important to rest to prevent more pain. Cold packs and paracetamol or ibuprofen help to reduce pain. You should contact your doctor if the pain does not settle after four days.

Cortisone can weaken structures such as tendons and cartilage for a short time. As a result, we recommend resting for up to 7 days after injection. In some, we advise a more extended rest from football, basketball, or sprinting. You must follow the strict advice of your doctor. 

In general, other side effects are less common:

When does a cortisone injection start to work?

In general, cortisone injections begin to work after seven days. However, it may take up to 2 weeks. Usually, the pain-relieving effect lasts for three months and sometimes six months.

Do you need to rest after a cortisone injection?

We recommend resting the joint or tendon at least seven days after injection. As a rule, you can resume exercise after one week. Dr Masci will give you specific instructions regarding your post-injection activity at your injection.

How many cortisone injections can I have?

There are no exact rules on the maximal number of cortisone injections. Overall, three injections spaced out at least six weeks apart for each injection are acceptable. However, multiple injections in different areas are safe.

cortisone shot

How much do cortisone shots cost?

For people who have insurance, the cortisone injection cost is covered by your plan.

A cortisone injection in London should not be prohibitive if you don’t have insurance.

Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection cost in London

Generally, ultrasound-guided injection costs vary according to the clinic. Some clinics charge over £700, while others charge £250.

Dr Masci offers injections starting at £390 for cortisone injections with ultrasound. Review ultrasound-guided injections offered by Dr Masci here. 

You should find a doctor who has expertise in ultrasound. As a general rule, many doctors neither have the training nor the skills for ultrasound-guided injections. Moreover, some practitioners (such as physiotherapists, osteopaths, and podiatrists) do not have medical training. Many practitioners who perform injections in the United Kingdom are not regulated or have completed proper training. Dr Masci is a doctor and expert in ultrasound-guided injections. He has published papers and has been invited to conferences to speak on injections.

But why do some clinics in London offer injections as low as £250? 

The reasons why clinics charge as little as £250 for cortisone injections are variable. Sometimes, clinics do not use ultrasound to guide injections – but we know that blind injections are less accurate and effective. Next, some clinics use non-medical practitioners, such as nurse practitioners, physiotherapists, podiatrists, and beauty therapists, to perform these injections. These groups are much less regulated compared to doctors. 

In general, we recommend you do your homework first before proceeding with an injection. We suggest you ask these four questions before undergoing an injection. 

Are there alternatives to cortisone?  

There may be alternatives for joint and tendon injuries, such as platelet-rich plasma, hyaluronic acid, or needling under local anaesthetic. These injections have their advantages and disadvantages.

Platelet-rich plasma is produced by spinning blood and separating the plasma from the red and white cells. The plasma is then injected into diseased joints and tendons.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in joints. Injecting hyaluronic acid into diseased joints reduces pain and improves joint function. Examples of hyaluronic acid include Duroalne and Ostenil Plus.

Dr Masci’s ultrasound-guided cortisone injection cost in London 

Dr Masci offers a one-stop shop for assessments and injections. The cost of an injection includes the initial assessment, diagnostic ultrasound and ultrasound-guided injection.

We often hear from patients that they have been quoted £600-£2000 for ultrasound-guided injections. And this can often be without other hidden costs of separate appointments. 

Our clinics provide expert assessment and injections for an all-inclusive price of £390 for all standard cortisone injection procedures for the shoulder, elbow, wrist and finger, hip, knee, ankle and foot. Dr Masci performs tendon, nerve and joint injections.

Hyaluronic acid injections for joints and tendons are £460 (Ostenil plus) and £480 (Durolane). 

PRP injections are £500 for the first injection and £400 for the second and subsequent injections. 

Dr Masci performs advanced procedures at a competitive price: 

Click on this body chart to find the injection you’re looking for. 

Final word from sportdoctorlondon about a cortisone injection cost in London 

Don’t trust just anyone to perform an injection. Make sure your practitioner is a doctor specialised in ultrasound-guided injections. Many practitioners who perform cheaper injections are not doctors and lack the proper training. Do your homework first. An ultrasound-guided injection cost in London should not be prohibitive.

Book now to reserve a spot for an injection. 

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