A cortisone injection in the knee involves delivering a corticosteroid medication directly into the joint space to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. These injections are commonly utilized to manage conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, and other inflammatory issues affecting the knee. The primary goal of this treatment is to provide targeted relief, helping individuals improve their knee function and overall comfort. Understanding the recommended activities following such an injection is important for optimizing its effectiveness and supporting recovery.
Initial Activity Recommendations
Following a cortisone injection in the knee, it is advised to rest the treated joint for the first 24 to 48 hours. This initial period of reduced activity allows the injected medication, which often includes both a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic, to settle and begin its work effectively. While complete bed rest is not usually necessary, individuals should avoid strenuous activities like running, jumping, heavy lifting, or any movements that place excessive stress on the knee.
Gentle walking and light movement are typically permitted and can even be beneficial during this immediate post-injection phase. Short, unhurried strolls can help promote circulation and prevent stiffness in the knee. However, it is important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If any discomfort or increased pain occurs, scale back activity and rest. Applying ice to the injection site for 10 to 20 minutes at a time, with breaks, can also help reduce temporary swelling or soreness in the first 24 hours.
Some healthcare providers may specifically advise against prolonged weight-bearing activities for the first day or two, especially since the knee is a weight-bearing joint. The local anesthetic can provide immediate pain relief, which might mask the true state of the knee. Adhering to your doctor’s specific instructions for activity limitations during this initial period is important.
Understanding the Healing Process
The full benefits of a cortisone injection in the knee typically do not manifest immediately; while a local anesthetic provides quick relief, the corticosteroid itself can take several days to a week to become effective. This delay occurs as the anti-inflammatory medication works to reduce swelling and pain within the joint. Patients might experience a temporary increase in pain, known as a “cortisone flare,” within the first 24 to 48 hours as the anesthetic wears off and the steroid begins to act.
Activity limitations generally extend beyond the initial 48 hours, with recommendations often including avoiding high-impact activities for at least a week. This longer period allows the cortisone to adequately reduce inflammation and supports the healing process without undue stress on the treated tissues. Gradually reintroducing higher levels of activity is important, monitoring the knee’s response and adjusting as needed.
The pain relief from a cortisone injection can last for several weeks to a few months, with some individuals experiencing relief for up to six months. While these injections offer temporary relief and can improve mobility, they do not cure the underlying cause of inflammation. A gradual return to activity, possibly guided by a physical therapist, helps maintain benefits and supports knee health.
Recognizing Potential Complications
While cortisone injections are generally well-tolerated, individuals should be aware of potential side effects and signs that warrant medical attention. Common, temporary side effects include pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Some individuals might also experience temporary facial flushing or an increase in blood sugar levels, particularly those with diabetes.
Although rare, more serious complications can arise. It is important to watch for signs of infection, which include increasing pain, pronounced redness, warmth, or excessive swelling around the injection site lasting more than 48 hours. Other indicators include pus draining from the site, red streaks, or a fever.
If any signs of infection appear, or if there is severe, worsening pain, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Though uncommon, repeated injections carry a slight risk of cartilage damage, weakening of tendons, or changes in skin color at the injection site. Discussing any concerns or unusual symptoms with your doctor ensures appropriate management.