How long does it take for a cortisone injection to be effective for tenosynovitis?
May 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
The time it takes for a corticosteroid injection to become effective for tenosynovitis depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, relief usually occurs relatively quickly, often within about 2 weeks after the injection. However, in more severe cases where complications such as tendon contracture, joint deformity, or stiffness have developed, the response to the injection is typically slower, and improvement may take around 3 weeks.
Tenosynovitis: How long it takes for a corticosteroid injection to take effect usually depends on the severity of the condition. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Mild Condition
Tenosynovitis is typically an inflammatory condition caused by prolonged excessive friction of tendons, leading to injury and inflammation of the tendon and its sheath. In mild cases where joint pain is not severe, relief after a corticosteroid injection tends to occur relatively quickly, often within about 2 weeks.
2. Severe Condition
If tenosynovitis is more severe, with intensified joint pain, significant movement limitations, or even complications such as tendon contracture, joint deformity, or stiffness, the response to a corticosteroid injection may be slower. In such cases, patients are generally advised to additionally take anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications as prescribed by their doctor and undergo local physical therapy to promote recovery. Improvement may take longer, typically around 3 weeks.
Patients are advised to keep the affected area warm during treatment to prevent local chilling, which could impair recovery.
