How often can a joint or tendon sheath be injected with Glucocorticoids medications?
The main concern with frequent injections is accelerated deterioration of the joint attributable to cartilage breakdown or weakening of the tendon. A single GC injection into a tendon sheath can weaken the tendon up to 40% for 3 to 12 weeks. Thus, the longer the interval between injections, the better it is. A minimum of 4 to 6 weeks between injections is recommended. Weight-bearing joints should not be injected more frequently than every 6 to 12 weeks. A good rule of thumb is not to inject the same joint or tendon sheath more than three times yearly.
