Cortisone injections?

Question

My doctor is keen for me to have cortisone injections into my shoulders and wrists, but I have a problem with this in case they hit a nerve. I have on occassion it a nerve myself (insulin) with a thin needle, but though thought of a thicker one is making me feel quite unneccessary.

I am wondering how much they hurt, what damage can be done, and why I could not have them done while under ga for another operation due in the next few months!

The doctor just laughed at me when I nearly fainted. It is a needle phobia. The general anaesthetic is for another operation I am due to have which is why I was wondering if it could be done then - and I would not know anything about it!

Answer 1

I have them in my left shoulder now and again and
have never had a problem with painfull injections
only relief after it is done.Doctors know just the
right places to put the needle so do not be afraid
of him/her hitting a nerve,it never happens.
The relief from pain far out ways the injection,
which to me was nearly painless,so go and get some ease from your pain soon.
Best of luck.

Answer 2

Having performed numerous injections as you described in the past, I can tell you... the anatomy is clear and the injections are placed to avoid injury to any major anatomic features. However, if you are diabetic, which I assume you are based on the insulin injections, you could have problems with your glycemic control following the injection of steroids. While these are injected locally, they are absorbed and transported systemically, and blood sugar issues in diabetics is not uncommon.

Additionally, I am concerned that you hit nerves injecting subcutaneous insulin. Please be sure you use areas with a large subcutaneous layer, like the paraumbilical region.

Answer 3

It is not known to hit and damage nerves, as the doctor performing the procedure will know the anatomy of the region. You may talk to him/her and get assurance. Combining it with operation is not ideal as the steroids will interfere with immunity to fight infection & the healing process. And why to suffer that long? Get it now, I am sure you will be OK.
Good luck!

Answer 4

My neice has to have them every six months in her knees and shoulder. You get a freezing spray put on so it dulls the pain and its put in a gap in the joint she has never had any nerve problems. They are steriod which can cause weight gain thats why you can only have them every six months.I hope my answer has helped you they will help your problem good luck with them anyway.

Answer 5

You must have faith in your doctor.And secondly GA is not adviseable for such a simple procedure.You must know GA carries grave risks and is used only as a last resort in surgery where the risk of shock from pain exists.Cortisone is steroid.Since the doc has advised it,must be that the situation calls for it to be administered.Delay may have severe consequences.So dont be so fussy and do as your doc says.Have cortisones.But enquire,whether steroids can be avoided.Cause,steroids are a necessary evil.They also carry grave risks in themselves.