A cortisone shot is used to reduce inflammation and relieve swelling and pain in specific areas of the body, particularly the joints.
What is a Cortisone Shot and How Does It Work?
This type of cortisone injection relies on corticosteroid medications that mimic hormones from the adrenal glands, calming the immune system’s response and white blood cells to lower inflammation. Doctors often mix the medication with a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, to provide immediate pain relief during the procedure.
This technique is used in several joints, including:
- The knee, ankle, and elbow.
- The shoulder, hip, and wrist.
- The spine and small joints in the hands and feet.
Indications for a Cortisone Shot in Knee and Other Areas
This treatment is used in various cases, including:
- Joint Diseases: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and reactive arthritis.
- Tissue Injuries: Tendonitis, ligament pain, and bursitis.
- Other Conditions: Gout, knee stiffness, back and neck pain, frozen shoulder, and some skin issues like alopecia or asthma.
This method is superior to oral medications in its speed of action in suppressing inflammation. It also helps the patient avoid stomach irritation and digestive issues and does not cause withdrawal syndrome when discontinued.
Cortisone Side Effects and Potential Complications
While generally safe, some side effects may occur, and the likelihood increases with frequent doses or high quantities.
Common and Local Effects:
- Temporary pain or swelling at the injection site (known as a cortisone flare).
- Skin pallor or whitening, with potential atrophy of the skin or fatty tissues surrounding the area.
- Bruising or minor bleeding in the muscles or skin.
General and Rare Effects:
- Temporary increase in blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
- Brief flushing of the face.
- Mood swings, night sweats, or sleep disturbances.
- Rare cases: Tendon rupture or weakness, osteoporosis with long-term use, or joint infection.
Important Guidelines Before and After the Injection
Before the Procedure:
Inform your doctor if you have had a fever (38°C or higher) in the last two weeks, or if you are taking supplements or blood-thinning medications; the doctor may ask you to stop them to reduce the risk of bleeding.
After the Procedure:
- Rest the joint for one or two days and avoid strenuous activities (such as lifting heavy weights if the shoulder was injected).
- Use ice packs to relieve pain and avoid using hot compresses.
- Refrain from using jacuzzis or hot tubs for two days.
When to See a Doctor Immediately?
Seek urgent medical care if signs of hypersensitivity appear, such as:
- Swelling of the tongue or throat, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.
- Hives or skin rash.
- Cognitive confusion, seizures, or sudden changes in vision.
- Persistent chills or fever, or increased swelling 48 hours after the injection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do cortisone shots do?
It is a local treatment containing steroids to reduce swelling and inflammation in a specific area, usually administered by a specialist in a clinic.
What is the maximum number of times I can receive a cortisone shot?
Recommendations depend on the type of joint and the medical diagnosis. Joints can be injected 3 to 4 times per year without significant complications, although doctors prefer to reduce frequency to avoid cartilage damage.
How long does it take to fully recover from the effects of the injection?
The recovery period is short if the practitioner’s instructions are followed, the joint is given sufficient rest, and physical activities in the affected area are avoided for several days.
When does the effect of the injection start to appear?
Some people feel immediate improvement following the procedure, while others may need several days before the desired benefit appears.
Disclaimer: This material is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a visit to a specialist doctor.
Related articles
- Effective Shoulder Pain Treatment and Relief Options
- Managing and Preventing Hip Fractures in Older Adults
- Heel Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor
- Guide to Proper Computer Use for Pain Prevention
- More about Muscles, Tendons & Injuries
Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team