Benefits of Physiotherapy after Corticosteroid Injection
A corticosteroid injection is a medical procedure in which a corticosteroid medication is injected directly into a specific area of injury such as a joint, tendon, or bursa. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation in the affected area.
The injection is typically performed by a healthcare professional, such as a physician or an orthopedic specialist. Before the injection, the area may be numbed with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The corticosteroid medication is then injected precisely into the targeted site.
Conditions that may require a corticosteroid injection to help with the rehabilitation process includes:
Joint arthritis
Bursitis in the shoulder or hip
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Trigger finger
Knee fat pad impingement
Anterior ankle impingement
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after receiving a corticosteroid injection. While corticosteroid injections can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation, they primarily target the symptoms and do not address the underlying cause of the problem. Physiotherapy aims to address the main cause of the condition, improve mobility, restore function, and prevent future recurrence. Here are some key reasons why physiotherapy is important after corticosteroid injections:
Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy helps in the rehabilitation process by promoting healing, reducing pain, and restoring normal function. It can include various techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation, all of which are tailored to the specific needs of the individual.
Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility: Corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief by reducing inflammation, but it may not address the issues related to joint stiffness, muscle imbalances, or reduced range of motion. Physiotherapy exercises and techniques can help improve joint mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength, promoting beneficial long-term recovery outcomes.
Preventing Recurrence: Physiotherapy can address underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and dysfunctions that contribute to the source of symptoms, lping to prevent recurrence. Physiotherapy can also improve compensatory movements that may have developed due to pain or injury. By improving posture, biomechanics, and muscle strength, physiotherapy can provide long-term benefits and reduce the likelihood of future flare-ups.
Rehabilitation of Surrounding Tissues: Corticosteroid injections can affect not only the targeted area but also the surrounding tissues. Physiotherapy can help in the rehabilitation of these tissues by promoting blood circulation, reducing scar tissue formation, and restoring normal movement patterns.
Patient Education and Self-Management: Physiotherapy involves patient education, teaching individuals about their condition, proper body mechanics, and strategies for self-management. By understanding the above and implementing self-care techniques, patients can optimize the benefits of corticosteroid injections and reduce the need for additional interventions.
It is recommended to consult with a physiotherapist to assess your specific needs and design a personalized treatment plan to maximize the benefits of corticosteroid injections and facilitate a successful recovery.