5 Signs You Might Benefit from a Steroid Injection for Joint Pain
If joint or tendon pain has been dragging on longer than you'd like — stopping you from training, sleeping or even walking comfortably — it might be time to explore your options.
One of the most effective tools for fast, targeted relief is a steroid injection, especially when done by a specialist.
At our Sports Medicine Clinic in Harrogate Dr. Rishi offers ultrasound-guided steroid injections to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain and support your recovery — without guesswork.
But how do you know if it’s the right move?
Here are 5 signs you might benefit from a steroid injection.
1. You’ve Tried Rest, Rehab & Treatment — But the Pain Isn’t Shifting
If you've been doing all the right things — rehab exercises, rest, hands-on physio — and you're still stuck in pain, a steroid injection might help break the cycle of inflammation.
Conditions like tendinopathy or bursitis can create a feedback loop of swelling and pain. A steroid injection helps calm that down so your body can start to recover properly.
2. Pain Is Limiting Your Daily Life or Sleep
When pain starts interfering with everyday activities — walking, driving, lifting your arm, or even sleeping — it’s a sign that the inflammation is too severe for rehab alone.
Steroid injections are especially helpful for:
Shoulder impingement
Frozen shoulder
Knee or hip arthritis
Hip or shoulder bursitis
Carpal Tunnel syndrome
They don’t “mask” the issue — they give your body the breathing space it needs to heal.
3. You’re Unable to Progress in Rehab
Sometimes, you want to do the work — but the pain is too high for you to even start.
A carefully placed, ultrasound-guided steroid injection allows you to:
Reduce pain and swelling quickly
Regain movement in stiff or inflamed joints
Make progress in physio or strength work that previously felt impossible
4. You’ve Been Told You Might Need Surgery — But Want Other Options First
Steroid injections can be a helpful alternative or middle step before considering more invasive options like surgery.
For many people, a well-timed injection combined with proper rehab can delay or even avoid surgery entirely.
5. You Want a Clear Answer From a Specialist
Seeing Dr. Rishi at our Sports Medicine Clinic isn’t just about the injection. He’ll:
Accurately diagnose your issue
Perform real-time ultrasound imaging
Help you decide whether an injection is appropriate
Work alongside your physio to create a full rehab and recovery plan
No fluff. No confusion. Just clear answers.
What Happens During a Steroid Injection?
Dr. Rishi uses ultrasound-guided injections, which means:
Pinpoint accuracy (he can see exactly where the needle is going)
Less discomfort
Better outcomes than “blind” injections
The entire process takes around 20–30 minutes, and you can usually return to light activity shortly after.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If pain is holding you back, don’t wait. Dr. Rishi’s clinic’s at MOVE are on:
🗓️ The first week of the month
📍 MOVE Clinic, Harrogate
🎯 Expert-led treatment + clear diagnosis, all in one appointment.
👉 Book Your Sports Medicine Appointment
Not Sure if It’s Right for You?
Get in touch with our team. We’ll help you decide if a steroid injection or Sports Medicine assessment is the right next step — no pressure, just honest advice.