Steroid injection in knee

HLTonks

How long should I have off work after having steroid injection in my knee, I’m reading different amount of days. I have osteoarthritis.

Thanks

PJoanne

Hello @HLTonks and welcome to the community

Here is some information from the VA website about steroid injections, I did a quick read and couldn't find any advice recommended recovery times, apart from advice regarding the anaesthetic considerations ie short term acting or long term acting . Perhaps it is more of an individual case by case situation ?

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/drugs/steroid-injections/

Please do give the helpline a ring (details below) or maybe your GP if you need a not fit to work certificate?

https://www.versusarthritis.org/get-help/

All the best Joanne

jonr

Hello @PJoanne,

I think it depends what sort of work you do. The nurse told me to take it easy for 24 hours after injections in both knees, I felt able to go about my everyday routines but cut out the physio and exercise I usually do for a day and had no side-effects in both cases.

PJoanne

Hi @jonr , yes I agree with you.😀

susipaul

A steroid injection in the knee can provide relief from pain and inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis. physical therapy Long Beach The injection delivers corticosteroids directly into the joint, reducing swelling and discomfort. While effective for many, it's not a permanent solution and may require repeated treatments. Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss the benefits, risks, and appropriate frequency of steroid injections.

helpline_team

Hi @HLTonks

Thank you for your post on the Helpline Online Community regarding steroid injections in the knee and how long to take off work.

@PJoanne, @jonr and @susipaul have all shared some good information and links on this topic. As mentioned, it will depend on your individual circumstances such as the type of work you do and the symptoms you have. The NHS guidance (link below) states that you may need to rest your knee for a few days after a steroid injection. Even then, it’s best not to overdo things for a few weeks, so if you do heavy manual work involving your knees, perhaps talk to your employer about the possibility of altered duties during this period.

You may find the following page on our website helpful regarding work and talking to your employer about arthritis and how it affects you: 

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/living-with-arthritis/work/

Here is the NHS link:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/steroid-injections/

I hope this helps. As suggested, you’re welcome to give us a call on the Helpline if you would like to talk things through informally. Our number is 0800 520 0520 (open Monday – Friday 9am – 6pm excluding bank holidays).

Best wishes,

Helen, Helpline Advisor

helpline@versusarthritis.org