Arthritis in the foot or ankle can make everyday activities painful and difficult. Swelling, stiffness, and joint pain often worsen over time, limiting mobility and quality of life. For patients not ready for surgery, steroid injections (also known as corticosteroid injections) provide a safe and effective way to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Mr. Turab Syed, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in foot and ankle conditions, offers steroid injections at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. Using advanced imaging and precise technique, Mr. Syed ensures targeted relief with minimal discomfort.

This guide explains how steroid injections work, who can benefit, the procedure, recovery expectations, and why patients choose Mr. Syed for care.

What are steroid injections?

Steroid injections deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine directly into the affected joint or surrounding tissues. By reducing inflammation, they help relieve pain and improve movement.

They are commonly used to treat:

• Osteoarthritis of the ankle or midfoot.
  
• Rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joints of the foot.
  
• Post-traumatic arthritis following an injury.
  
• Bursitis or tendon inflammation in the ankle or heel.
  

The effects can last several months, allowing patients to stay active and manage symptoms more comfortably.

Who can benefit from steroid injections?

Steroid injections may be suitable for patients who:

• Experience ongoing joint pain and swelling despite medication or physiotherapy.
  
• Have arthritis or inflammation affecting one or more foot or ankle joints.
  
• Are looking to delay or avoid surgery.
  
• Need pain relief to support rehabilitation and physiotherapy progress.
  

Mr. Syed conducts a detailed assessment and reviews imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound scans, to identify the precise joint or tendon causing pain before recommending treatment.

Steroid injections in Stirling & Hamilton: The procedure

Pre-treatment preparation

Before treatment, Mr. Syed will:

• Review your medical history and any medications you’re taking.
  
• Explain the benefits, risks, and what to expect during and after the injection.
  
• Offer guidance on rest and activity following the procedure.
  

The procedure itself

• The skin over the injection site is cleaned and numbed.
  
• Using ultrasound guidance, Mr. Syed accurately inserts a fine needle into the affected joint.
  
• A corticosteroid and local anaesthetic are injected to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
  

The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day.

After the procedure

• Mild discomfort or warmth may occur for 24–48 hours.
  
• Ice and rest are recommended for the first day or two.
  
• Pain relief typically begins within a few days and continues to improve over the following weeks.
  

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery after a steroid injection is typically quick, with most patients experiencing:

• 1–2 days: Rest and reduced activity to allow the medication to settle.
  
• 3–7 days: Gradual improvement in pain and swelling.
  
• Up to 3 months (or longer): Ongoing symptom relief depending on the condition and response.
  

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy impact activities for several days. Physiotherapy may be recommended to help maintain mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles once pain improves.

Risks and side effects

Steroid injections are very safe when performed by a trained specialist like Mr. Syed. Possible side effects include:

• Mild pain or bruising at the injection site.
  
• Temporary flare-up of discomfort after the injection (“steroid flare”).
  
• Very rare risk of infection.
  
• Slight thinning of the skin or changes in skin colour at the injection site (with repeated injections).
  

Mr. Syed uses ultrasound guidance and strict sterile technique to minimise risks and ensure accurate placement of the injection.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Specialist in foot and ankle arthritis with advanced fellowship training.
  
• Ultrasound-guided precision for effective and safe injection therapy.
  
• Comprehensive approach combining conservative treatments and surgical expertise.
  
• Convenient locations at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton.
  

FAQs

Do steroid injections hurt?
You may feel a brief sting during the injection, but the procedure is usually well tolerated and numbing medication is used.

How long do the effects last?
Pain relief typically lasts between 3–6 months, depending on the condition.

Can I have more than one injection?
Yes, but injections are usually spaced several months apart to avoid potential side effects.

Will this cure my arthritis?
Steroid injections don’t cure arthritis but can effectively control symptoms and delay the need for surgery.

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Book your consultation

If arthritis pain is affecting your daily activities, a steroid injection with Mr. Turab Syed could help reduce pain and improve mobility.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to explore your treatment options.