Common orthopedic conditions, such as tendonitis, bursitis, and arthritis, can cause inflammation in the joints that leads to pain and stiffness. Although there are a variety of treatments that provide joint pain relief, for many people cortisone injections are an effective option. If you’re thinking about injections to help reduce your pain, here are answers to some of the most common questions.
What to Know About Cortisone Injections
Is cortisone a steroid?
Cortisone is a corticosteroid. However, it’s not the same as steroids used by athletes to “bulk up” or improve performance. Those steroids are anabolic or muscle building synthetic forms of testosterone. Corticosteroids used for joint injection are anti-inflammatory drugs used to decrease inflammation. They act locally rather than systemically (throughout the body), so they will not cause significant weight gain or physical changes.
How does a cortisone shot work?
When you have a cortisone shot, the doctor will directly inject the medicine into the affected area so it can act immediately to reduce inflammation. Although you may have some pain directly after the injection, as with any shot, you should begin feeling some joint pain relief within a few days.
Are there any side effects?
The most common side effect from cortisone shots is pain at the injection site, which should resolve within a few days. Some doctors will use a local anesthetic to reduce the immediate discomfort from the injection, which can cause a temporary increase in pain as it wears off. Icing the area for 20 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first night, and resting the affected joint for at least 24 hours can reduce discomfort.
Other side effects or risks of cortisone injections include cartilage damage with repeated injections, tendon weakening or rupture, lightening of the surrounding skin and joint infection.
Should anyone avoid cortisone shots?
Although cortisone shots are an effective form of joint pain relief for many people, people with diabetes need to use care when having them, as the medication can cause a temporary elevation in blood sugar. You should not get a cortisone injection if you have an infection. Doctors also limit the number of shots you can have to no more than 3-4 shots a year, as too many can damage tendons and cartilage, contribute to muscle atrophy, and decrease the ability for tissue to heal. The timing of steroid injections can also affect the risk of postoperative infection with some surgeries so discuss any steroid injection with your doctor before surgical procedures.
If you have pain due to a degenerative condition, repetitive motion, or injury, Advanced Orthopaedic Associates in Wayne, NJ, can help you find joint pain relief. Serving Passaic, Bergen, and Morris counties for over 25 years, they offer individualized treatments to prevent and heal pain or discomfort throughout the body. Visit them online to learn more about treatment options, or call (973) 839-5700 to schedule an appointment.
