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Injection

A steroid injection in the buttocks is commonly used to treat inflammation and pain in muscles, tendons, bursae, or joints around the hip and gluteal region. The injection contains a local anaesthetic for immediate pain relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. Physiotherapy after the injection is essential to address the underlying cause of the problem, restore movement, and prevent the condition from recurring.

Vineet Bansal
Medically Reviewed By
Vineet BansalCLINICAL DIRECTOR / PRINCIPAL MUSCULOSKETAL & SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Last reviewed on 29 May 2026
Injection

What is a Steroid Injection of the Buttocks?

A corticosteroid injection is a medical treatment used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in soft tissues and joints.

In the buttock region, the injection may be administered into:

  • Muscles
  • Tendons
  • Bursae (fluid-filled sacs)
  • Joints
  • Soft tissue structures

The injection typically contains:

  • Local anaesthetic – provides immediate pain relief
  • Cortisone (steroid) – reduces inflammation and swelling

This treatment helps reduce symptoms and creates an opportunity for rehabilitation through physiotherapy.

Causes

Steroid injections in the buttocks are often used to treat inflammatory conditions affecting the hip and surrounding structures.

Common conditions treated include:

  • Ischiogluteal bursitis – inflammation of the bursa near the sitting bone
  • Gluteal tendinopathy – inflammation or degeneration of gluteal tendons
  • Piriformis syndrome – irritation of the piriformis muscle affecting the sciatic nerve
  • Hamstring origin tendinopathy – inflammation where the hamstring attaches to the pelvis
  • Trochanteric bursitis – inflammation near the outer hip bone
  • Other inflammatory soft tissue conditions around the hip

These conditions often cause pain, restricted movement, and difficulty performing daily activities.

Symptoms

Following a steroid injection in the buttocks, it is normal to experience temporary symptoms for up to 48 hours.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Mild pain at the injection site
  • Temporary increase in discomfort
  • Local swelling or tenderness
  • Slight stiffness in the hip or buttock region

These symptoms usually improve within a short period as the steroid begins to reduce inflammation.

What Should I Do?

After receiving a steroid injection, it is important to allow the area to rest initially while the medication begins to work.

Recommended steps include:

  • Resting the affected area for the first 24–48 hours
  • Avoiding strenuous activities or heavy exercise
  • Gradually returning to movement as advised by your physiotherapist
  • Beginning physiotherapy rehabilitation to address the root cause of the condition

Physiotherapy helps maximise the benefits of the injection and supports long-term recovery.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Physiotherapy is strongly recommended following a steroid injection to restore function and prevent recurrence.

At ACE Physio Sports, physiotherapists perform a comprehensive assessment of the hip, lower back, and legs to identify contributing factors.

Treatment may include:

Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises for the gluteal muscles, hamstrings, and core improve stability and support hip function.

Stretching and Flexibility Exercises

Stretching helps restore normal muscle length and reduce tension in the surrounding tissues.

Postural and Alignment Training

Correcting posture and biomechanics reduces strain on the hip and buttock region.

Functional and Gait Retraining

Exercises help restore normal walking patterns and movement mechanics.

Manual Therapy

Soft tissue techniques improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

Education and Activity Guidance

Advice on activity levels and movement strategies helps prevent recurrence and secondary injuries.

These treatments help restore strength, mobility, and function in the hip and gluteal region.

What Shouldn’t I Do?

After a steroid injection in the buttocks, certain activities should be avoided.

Avoid:

  • Intense physical activity immediately after the injection
  • Heavy lifting or high-impact exercise
  • Ignoring ongoing pain or symptoms
  • Returning to sports without rehabilitation guidance

Following professional advice helps ensure proper recovery.

Long-Term Effects or Recovery

Steroid injections can be very effective in reducing inflammation and relieving pain. However, the injection itself does not correct the underlying cause of the problem.

Physiotherapy plays a critical role in:

  • Restoring muscle strength
  • Improving flexibility and joint mobility
  • Correcting movement patterns
  • Preventing recurring injuries

With appropriate physiotherapy rehabilitation, most patients experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and better long-term function.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

At ACE Physio Sports, we provide specialised physiotherapy treatment to support recovery after steroid injections and hip injuries.

Our physiotherapy services include:

  • Comprehensive movement assessments
  • Personalised rehabilitation programmes
  • Strength and stability training
  • Manual therapy and mobility techniques
  • Injury prevention strategies

Our goal is to help patients reduce pain, restore movement, and return safely to daily activities and sport.

Book Appointment

If you have received a steroid injection in the buttocks and need rehabilitation support, our physiotherapists at ACE Physio Sports can help.

Website https://acephysiosport.com

Phone / WhatsApp +65 81535374

Email admin@acephysiosport.com

Book your physiotherapy appointment today and begin your rehabilitation and recovery programme.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after Injection should I start physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy typically begins within the first 1–2 weeks post-surgery, sometimes even while still in hospital. Early rehabilitation helps reduce stiffness, control swelling, and set the foundation for a full functional recovery.

How long does recovery from Injection take?

Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, but most patients see significant functional improvement within 6–12 weeks. Full recovery — including return to sport or demanding activity — may take 3–12 months.

What can I do at home to support my recovery from Injection?

Following your home exercise programme, managing swelling with ice and elevation, eating well, and sleeping sufficiently all contribute to faster healing. Your physiotherapist will provide a personalised home recovery plan specific to your procedure.

Ready to start your recovery?

Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.

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