Post-Corticosteroid Knee Injection Patient Instructions
Avoid overusing your injected knee for 24 hours following the injection, but do not immobilize it—continue gentle movement and normal daily activities. 1
Activity Restrictions
- First 24 hours: Limit strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercises on the injected knee
- Do NOT rest completely or immobilize the joint—this is actively discouraged as it can worsen outcomes 1
- After 24 hours, gradually resume normal activities as tolerated
- You can expect pain relief to begin within days to weeks and may last 1-3 months 2
Monitoring for Complications
If You Have Diabetes
Critical: Monitor your blood glucose levels closely, especially during the first 3 days after injection 1. Corticosteroids can cause temporary elevation in blood sugar, even if your diabetes is well-controlled. Contact your primary care provider if glucose levels are significantly elevated.
Watch for Infection (Rare but Serious)
Contact your doctor immediately if you develop:
- Increasing pain, warmth, or swelling in the knee
- Fever or chills
- Redness spreading from the injection site
- Drainage from the injection site
Post-Injection Flare
You may experience a temporary increase in pain and swelling within the first 24-48 hours after injection 3. This is called a "post-injection flare" and typically resolves on its own. Apply ice and take over-the-counter pain medication as needed.
Important Timing Considerations
If you are considering knee replacement surgery: Inform your orthopedic surgeon about this injection. Corticosteroid injections should be avoided for at least 3 months before joint replacement surgery due to potential infection risk 4.
Expected Benefits and Duration
- Pain relief typically begins within a few days to 2 weeks
- Maximum benefit usually occurs at 4-6 weeks 2
- Effects are time-limited, generally lasting 1-3 months 4, 2
- The injection works by reducing inflammation in your knee joint
When to Consider Re-injection
Discuss with your provider whether another injection is appropriate based on:
- How much benefit you received from this injection
- Your other treatment options
- Your overall treatment plan 1
Note: Repeated corticosteroid injections may have long-term effects on cartilage and bone health, so they should be used judiciously as part of a comprehensive treatment plan 4, 3.