Persistent Pain After Steroid Injection for Shoulder Keloid: What to Expect

After receiving steroid injections for shoulder keloids, there has been persistent stabbing pain?

I would like to ask about my keloid, which is located on my shoulder and measures about 2/3 cm.
Today, I received a steroid injection for the first time, and for the past two hours, I have been experiencing intermittent severe pain around the keloid, resembling a stabbing sensation.
I searched online and couldn't find any information indicating that people experience persistent pain after the injection.

Feng Xue Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/18

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

It can be painful.
Pain after injection treatment for keloids is quite common, and each person's tolerance for pain varies, so the duration of pain will also differ.
This is normal.

Reply Date: 2022/10/18

More Info

When it comes to persistent pain following a steroid injection for a keloid, it's important to understand both the nature of the treatment and the body's response to it. Keloids are raised scars that can develop after an injury or surgery, and they often cause discomfort or pain. Steroid injections, such as triamcinolone (Kenacort), are commonly used to reduce inflammation and flatten keloids, but they can also lead to temporary discomfort.

Firstly, experiencing pain or discomfort in the area surrounding the injection site is not uncommon. After a steroid injection, some patients report a sensation of pain, burning, or even a sharp, needle-like feeling. This can occur due to the injection itself, as the needle can irritate the surrounding tissues, or as a result of the steroid's action on the keloid. The initial pain you felt shortly after the injection could be attributed to the injection process, which can cause localized trauma to the tissue. This is often a normal response and may subside within a few hours to a couple of days.

However, if the pain persists beyond a few days, it may indicate other underlying issues. For instance, the injection could have inadvertently affected nearby nerves or tissues, leading to prolonged discomfort. In some cases, patients may experience a reaction to the steroid itself, although this is less common. It's also worth noting that individual pain tolerance varies, and some people may experience more significant discomfort than others.

In terms of what to expect moving forward, many patients find that the pain diminishes as the body adjusts to the injection and the steroid begins to take effect. Typically, the steroid will start to reduce inflammation and flatten the keloid over the course of several weeks. If the pain continues or worsens, it would be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend imaging studies or further evaluation to rule out any complications, such as infection or nerve damage.

Additionally, if you are considering further treatments for your keloid, such as additional steroid injections or alternative therapies like laser treatment or silicone gel sheets, it is essential to discuss these options with your doctor. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each approach based on your specific situation.

In summary, while some discomfort after a steroid injection for a keloid is expected, persistent pain warrants further investigation. It's crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that any ongoing issues are addressed promptly and effectively. If you have any concerns about your symptoms or the effectiveness of the treatment, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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