Steroid Injections for Mom's Hand: Is a Lump Normal?

Corticosteroid injection therapy for De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about my mother's condition after receiving a steroid injection for her "mommy's thumb." There is a subcutaneous lump about the size of a black bean that feels hard like bone.
Is this a normal phenomenon? Will it go away? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

zero, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/20

Dr. Shen Boquan reply Orthopedics

Hello, after your mother received a corticosteroid injection for her trigger finger, a subcutaneous lump about the size of a black bean has developed.
It feels hard like bone upon touch.
It is advisable to have your physician examine it, as it could be a ganglion cyst, an inflammatory reaction post-injection, or other possible conditions causing pain at the injection site.
If it is significantly bothersome and affecting her daily life, taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers may help.
Wishing you good health.
Best regards, Shen Baiquan.

Reply Date: 2024/06/20

More Info

When it comes to steroid injections, particularly in the context of treating conditions like arthritis or tendonitis in the hand, it is not uncommon for patients to experience localized reactions at the injection site. The lump you describe, which is about the size of a black bean and feels hard, can be attributed to a few factors related to the injection.

Firstly, the lump could be a localized reaction to the steroid itself. Corticosteroids can cause a temporary inflammatory response, leading to swelling and a firm feeling at the injection site. This is often referred to as a "steroid bump" and can occur as the body reacts to the medication. In many cases, this lump will gradually diminish over time as the body metabolizes the steroid and the inflammation subsides.

Secondly, the lump could also be a result of the injection technique. If the steroid was injected into the subcutaneous tissue rather than deeper into the joint or tendon sheath, it may create a palpable mass. This is particularly true if the injection was done in a manner that caused some trauma to the surrounding tissue, leading to localized swelling or hematoma formation.
In most cases, these lumps are benign and will resolve on their own within a few days to weeks. However, if the lump persists, increases in size, or is accompanied by significant pain, redness, or warmth, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate the area to rule out any complications such as infection or an adverse reaction to the steroid.

In terms of management, applying ice to the area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also be beneficial if there is any associated pain.
It's important to monitor the lump and any symptoms that may arise. If your mother experiences any new symptoms or if the lump does not begin to resolve in a reasonable timeframe, a follow-up appointment with her healthcare provider would be prudent. They can assess the lump and determine if any further intervention is necessary.

In summary, while a lump following a steroid injection can be a normal reaction, it is essential to keep an eye on it. Most likely, it will resolve on its own, but any concerning changes should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Steroid Injection Pain and Swelling in 'Mom's Hand'

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. On the evening of July 10th, I was diagnosed with "mother's wrist" and received a steroid injection. However, as of today (July 12th), I am experiencing redness, swelling, and pain in the muscle about 5 cm above...

Dr. Zhan Xian reply Orthopedics
Hello, if there is redness, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site or surrounding area, please return for a follow-up appointment.

Understanding Mommy's Wrist: Steroid Injection Side Effects and Recovery

Hello, over three months ago, I sought treatment at a clinic for "mother's hand" (De Quervain's tenosynovitis). The doctor administered a steroid injection into my wrist, but shortly after, I noticed an increasing disparity between my left and right hands. The...

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics
Hello: In response to your question. Your description does resemble the side effects of steroids; however, in the treatment of De Quervain's tenosynovitis (commonly known as "mommy's thumb"), steroids are typically injected near the tendon sheath rather than i...

Understanding Thumb Swelling: Surgical Risks and Alternative Treatments

Hello Doctor: My mother is 70 years old. Last year, her left thumb swelled up for no apparent reason. She is right-handed and primarily uses her right hand, but the swelling is only in her left hand, and we cannot find the cause. Last year, she received an anti-inflammatory injec...

Dr. You Dianqi reply Orthopedics
It is difficult to assess the patient's actual condition based solely on text. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to discuss them with the patient's attending physician or to take the patient for a medical consultation and seek opinions from other doctors in p...

Should My Mom Choose Steroid Injections or Surgery for Shoulder Tendon Issues?

Hello Doctor: My mother has been experiencing shoulder pain for about three months. An MRI revealed that her tendon is nearly torn. She has taken pain medication, but her condition has not improved. The doctor suggested she could receive a steroid injection and undergo rehabilita...

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics
Hello: You have been experiencing shoulder pain for three months, and the MRI has shown that the tendon is close to rupture. It is recommended that you undergo surgical repair first. After the wound has healed, you can then proceed with rehabilitation therapy to prevent further d...