both localized atrophy of the subcutaneous tissues and discoloration are well-known side effects of cortisone injections. sometimes these are the desired effects of the injection as when we inject steroids around nerve entrapments with the intent that the atrophy will decrease the pressure on the nerve. although one might prefer not to have the discoloration and atrophy from a cosmetic point of view these changes are not harmful.
is it normal to have a large area of skin discoloration and atrophy after a cortisone injection?