The experts in Ultrasound Guided Injections
HomePhysio 247 is an independent clinic specialising in Ultrasound-Guided Steroid Injections in London and Hyaluronic Acid Injections to effectively treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
How long do cortisone injections take to work?
If you’re asking how long do cortisone injections take to work, the typical range we explain to patients is 2–3 days up to 2 weeks. Some people notice improvement within a few days, while others need closer to two weeks to feel the benefit fully.
It’s also normal to feel temporarily better immediately after the injection if local anaesthetic is used — but that early relief is usually short-lived and doesn’t mean the steroid has “kicked in” yet.
What happens straight after the injection?
If local anaesthetic is used, you may feel pain-free for around 2 hours. After that, the original pain can return until the steroid begins working.
This “dip” can be unsettling if you weren’t expecting it. It doesn’t automatically mean anything has gone wrong — it’s often just the anaesthetic wearing off before the anti-inflammatory steroid effect has had time to build.
What to do while you’re waiting for it to work
HomePhysio247’s aftercare guidance is simple and practical:
- Continue your regular pain medication as prescribed (if you normally take it).
- Use ice packs for 10 minutes at a time over the injection site, 2–3 times per day, to help manage pain and swelling.
If you’re unsure what to take or what’s safe for you personally, it’s always best to follow the plan agreed with your clinician. We also advise patients not to drive after their injection for at least the rest of the day, but this is completely your choice.
How long does a cortisone injection usually last?
It’s not possible to predict duration precisely for everyone, but for most people, steroid injections are usually effective for 3 to 6 months, sometimes longer.
It’s worth keeping expectations realistic: injections are typically used to reduce inflammation and pain, often to help you move more comfortably and get better results from rehab or an exercise plan.
Book an Appointment Today
If you’ve recently had an injection and are unsure whether your response is normal, or you’re considering treatment and want realistic expectations, it’s important to have advice tailored to your specific diagnosis.
Every joint, every condition, and every patient responds slightly differently. Setting clear expectations about how long cortisone injections take to work helps avoid unnecessary worry and ensures treatment is used appropriately.
At HomePhysio247, all injections are ultrasound-guided and delivered following a thorough assessment.
If you would like personalised guidance on whether an injection is suitable for your condition — and what timeline you can reasonably expect — appointments are available at our Finchley and Marylebone clinics. Call our team or book online to arrange your consultation.
