Cortisone shots are a common medical procedure that delivers corticosteroids, synthetic hormones, to reduce pain and inflammation in specific body areas. They are primarily used to target localized inflammation.
What Cortisone Shots Do
Cortisone shots mimic the body’s natural anti-inflammatory hormones, calming the immune system’s response. This reduces swelling, redness, and pain. While providing relief, these shots manage symptoms rather than healing the underlying condition, facilitating rehabilitation.
Injections are commonly administered into joints, muscles, or around nerves for conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and trigger finger. Each shot typically contains a corticosteroid for sustained relief and a local anesthetic for immediate pain reduction. The full effect of the corticosteroid may take a few days to become noticeable.
Potential Concerns and Side Effects
While generally safe, cortisone shots can cause temporary, mild side effects. A common reaction is a “cortisone flare,” where injection site pain and inflammation temporarily worsen for one to two days. This flare occurs as steroid crystals irritate tissues. Applying ice and resting the area can help manage discomfort.
Other less severe side effects include temporary blood sugar increases, especially for diabetics, usually normalizing within days. Skin changes at the injection site, such as lightening, thinning, or dimpling from fat cell loss, can also occur. These skin changes can be permanent and more noticeable in darker skin. Facial flushing or difficulty sleeping may also occur.
More serious, though rare, concerns include infection at the injection site, requiring immediate medical attention if symptoms like increased pain, redness, or fever develop. There is also a small risk of tendon weakening or rupture, nerve damage, and cartilage damage, especially with repeated injections. Bone death (avascular necrosis) is also a rare risk. Allergic reactions are uncommon but possible.
Frequency and Long-Term Considerations
Healthcare providers limit cortisone shots due to potential cumulative effects and increased risks. While no universal rule exists, a common guideline suggests no more than three shots per year in a single joint. Injections should be spaced at least three months apart to allow body recovery and reduce adverse effects.
Exceeding recommended frequencies increases risks and diminishes effectiveness. Repeated injections, especially in the same area, can weaken cartilage, potentially accelerating arthritis progression. Tendons may also weaken, increasing rupture likelihood. Long-term use or higher doses can be associated with thinning bones (osteoporosis). These limitations balance pain relief benefits with long-term tissue health.
Discussing Treatment Options
Before receiving a cortisone shot, discuss your complete medical history, current medications, and any concerns with your healthcare provider. They can assess if a cortisone shot is the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition.
Ask about alternative treatment options, such as physical therapy to improve strength and mobility, or oral anti-inflammatory medications. Lifestyle adjustments, like the R.I.C.E. method (rest, ice, compression, elevation), may also be considered for certain injuries. Exploring all avenues and understanding potential benefits and risks helps you make an informed decision aligned with your health goals.