Why is local anaesthetic used in a cortisone injection?

Cortisone is intended to calm inflammation over time, whereas local anaesthetic acts more quickly and wears off sooner. The numbing medicine can make the injection more comfortable and may give the clinician information about whether the targeted joint or tissue contributes to your pain.

A temporary improvement after the anaesthetic does not prove that every symptom comes from that location, and discomfort can return as its effect fades. Cortisone also does not work immediately for everyone. Your clinician will explain what response to expect and how it fits the diagnosis.

Tell the clinician about allergies, previous reactions to local anaesthetic, diabetes, infection, medicines that affect bleeding, and any change in health. Follow the instructions about eating, driving, activity, and dressing the injection site. While numb, protect the area from heat, pressure, or strenuous use because normal warning sensations may be reduced.

Keep a simple record of pain, movement, and function as the numbness fades. Do not increase activity sharply just because the area feels better. Use the agreed rehabilitation plan and ask when normal exercise can resume.

Contact the treating service if pain, redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at the site is increasing, or if you develop fever or feel unwell. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, fainting, rapidly spreading weakness, or severe new pain. Report persistent numbness or loss of movement rather than waiting for it to resolve without advice.

What is the purpose of each medicine in my injection? How long might the numbness last? Which activity should I avoid while the area is numb? How will my response guide the next treatment step? What symptoms should prompt an urgent call?