Efficacy of Intra-Articular Steroid Injections in Patients with Degenerative Knee Osteoarthritis in Dongola Specialist Hospital, Sudan (2024–2025)

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder associated with pain, stiffness, impaired mobility, and functional limitation. Intra-articular corticosteroid injections are used to provide symptomatic relief, but the duration of benefit may be limited. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of intra-articular steroid injections in patients with degenerative knee osteoarthritis treated at Dongola Specialist Hospital, Sudan, during 2024–2025. Methods: This observational, prospective, hospital-based study included 60 patients with degenerative knee osteoarthritis. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and pain and function were assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Outcomes were assessed before injection and at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months after injection. Results: Half of the participants were aged 60–80 years; 58% were female and 42% were male. Forty per cent had been diagnosed with osteoarthritis for 5–10 years. The mean total WOMAC score decreased from 89 before injection to 57 at 3 weeks, then increased to 71 at 6 weeks and 83 at 3 months, indicating an early improvement followed by progressive loss of benefit. Post-injection pain flare occurred in 5 patients (8.3%), and mild local swelling occurred in 3 patients (5%). At 3 months, females had higher WOMAC scores than males (86.48 vs 81.04; p = 0.021), while age and disease duration were not significantly associated with WOMAC outcomes. Conclusion: Intra-articular corticosteroid injections were associated with short-term symptomatic improvement in knee osteoarthritis, with benefit diminishing by 3 months.