University Network

A recent study discovered that steroid injection produces a molecular response to tissue similar to that of a tendon injury. Patients who were treated with steroids injection due to rotator cuff injury or any tendon injury actually experienced temporary weakening of their tissues. Because of this, they are advised to return to their regular activity only after a few weeks rest. It would also be good idea for them to defer physical therapy for a few weeks.

Changes that happen to a tissue following a steroid injection were determined by a group of researchers from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation of the Loyola University in Chicago. The study was headed by Dr. John Callaci, MD, an assistant professor in the said university.

Callaci and colleagues observed rotator cuff tendons’ response to corticosteroid injections in rats. They also examined the gene expression profiles in the surrounding tissues and the presence of both corticosteroid and injury.

They found that a tissue’s molecular response to corticosteroid injection is something very similar to that of a tendon’s response to injury. There is evidence showing that a period of vulnerability or weakness often follows after steroid injection in a tendon.

This study however should not be a basis for medical practitioners to stop the usage of steroid injections in the treatment of tissue or tendon related injuries.

According to Dr. Callaci as quoted by Medical News Today:

“We found that steroid injections cause a tendon to behave in a way where it thinks it has been acutely injured,” noted Callaci. “Steroids rapidly provide anti-inflammatory and pain relief. That is why steroids are so popular, but physical therapy also can produce some of the same effects. It just takes longer.”

Category: Anabolic Steroids | Tags: rotator cuff injury, steroid injection, tendon injury