Information for Patients

Painful joints can be visualised with x-ray and treated under fluoroscopic guidance.  Cortisone shots are most commonly given into joints, such as your elbow, hip, ankle, knee, shoulder and wrist.  Even the small joints in your hands and feet may benefit from these injections.

Generally, you will find all the information you need in the letter that is sent to you. 

If you take anticoagulants/blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin), you may need to stop taking these for several days before your procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising.  Your GP must help coordinate what medications and supplements you should avoid before your cortisone shot.

The investigation involves exposure to x-rays.  X-rays consist of a type of radiation known as ionising radiation.  The doses that are used in medical x-rays are very low and the associated risks are minimal.  We keep the doses as low as possible and make sure that the benefits of having the x-ray outweigh any risk. 

Also, x-rays can be harmful for an unborn baby and should be avoided by women who are or who may be pregnant.  It is recommended that the examination is performed within 10 days of the first day of the onset of your menstrual period. 

Cortisone shots carry a risk of complications such as infection, nerve damage, thinning of the skin around the injection site, tendon weakening and osteoporosis.

When you arrive, report to X-ray Central Reception (Area 4) or X-ray North.  You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and to remove jewellery, dentures, glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.  You will then be called into the x-ray room and you will then be positioned in a way that allows the radiologist to most easily insert the needle.

The area around the injection site will be cleaned and an image of your joint will be taken, so that the radiologist knows exactly where to administer the medication.  You will likely feel some pressure when the needle is inserted.

The medication is then released into the joint.  A dressing will be placed over the injection site and you will be able to get dressed.

Some people experience redness and warm feeling in the face after receiving a cortisone shot.  Protect the injection area for a day or two.  Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.  If you received a joint injection in your knee, for example, try to stay off of it as much as you can. 

Feel free to apply an ice-pack to the injection site to reduce swelling and decrease any pain you might have. 

The results of your examination will not be given to you on the same day. To receive these results you will need an appointment see either the consultant who referred you, or your own GP. You will be told after the examination which of these doctors you need to see.