What postop protocol should I follow after an injection?
Ice area surrounding region for 15-20 minutes an hour for 3-4 hours*. Do not place ice directly over skin. Pain may suddenly increase 1-3 hours post injection as anesthetic wears off. When Cortisone starts to work, pain lessens in approximately 24 hours. Limit any unnecessary activity using injected extremity for 7-10 days. This will allow Cortisone to exert maximal anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, Cortisone injected around tendons can lead to tendon rupture. limiting activity will lessen this risk. Please call if after 2 days you see: • Temperature up to 101 degrees • Swelling • Redness noted at injection site *Longer icing if more pain.
