Should I get a cortisone shot?
When used along with physical therapy, cortisone shots can help create prolonged relief.
Cortisone shots are often used to reduce pain and inflammation from musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis and tendinitis.
Cortisone is a naturally occurring hormone. In its synthetic form, it can be injected as a potent but generally safe anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing agent.
“In simple terms, cortisone injections reduce inflammation,” says Britt L. Marcussen, MD, a family medicine physician and sports medicine expert with University of Iowa Health Care. “The result is less pain.”
What do cortisone shots treat?
Doctors use cortisone shots to treat many common conditions. These include:
Degenerative arthritis affects tens of millions of people in the United States. Cortisone shots are particularly effective in treating the knees, hips, and shoulders, but they also can be used to help smaller joints.
Cortisone injections in and around tendons are used for conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis—the most common reason for shoulder pain among adults. It can also be used to treat repetitive-motion issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.
Issues such as degenerative disc disease can respond to cortisone injections, particularly in patients experiencing sciatica, which is pain running along the sciatic nerve from the buttocks down through the legs.
Struggling with joint pain?
Recurring or lingering joint pain might be a sign of a more serious issue.
How effective are cortisone shots?
The duration and effectiveness of cortisone shots vary. Outcomes depend on the patient and the condition being treated, as well as the severity of the condition.
“It is important to remember that these injections do not last forever and do not heal your arthritis or tendinitis,” Marcussen says. “However, the temporary improvement in pain can allow patients to do other things, like physical therapy, which can improve joint and tendon function and lead to more prolonged relief.”
Apart from some discomfort at the injection site and possible short-term irritation in the joint, cortisone shots are generally well-tolerated and safe. For patients with diabetes, a cortisone shot may raise their blood sugar temporarily. There is minimal chance of infection or bleeding complications.
“A cortisone shot is not usually a cure for pain and inflammation, so working with a physical therapist and/or your primary care provider on optimizing joint and tendon health is critical,” Marcussen says.
When using cortisone shots, your provider may also suggest additional long-term health goals to improve pain. These steps may include mobility exercises and weight loss for patients who are overweight, as this may help joints function under less strain.