Over the last 10 year we have moved away from performing steroid injections for epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow and Golfers Elbow). There is short term benefit but no long term benefit. There is also an risk of tendon rupture, which increases with each injection. That said some patients do get good (but temporary) relief from an injection. After the injection you should rest the elbow for 7-10 days and during this period avoid the causal activity completely. For Tennis elbow do any lifting with the palm up. For Golfers elbow do any lifting with the palm down.

There is a low (1 in 18000) risk of infection in the joint after injection. If you experience redness, swelling and or heat in the joint plus a fever then phone your GP if in hours or attend A&E if out of hours.

Other potential side effects include: anaphylaxis, skin depigmentation, subcutaneous fat atrophy, tendon rupture, facial flushing.