A cortisone injection is a medical procedure where a corticosteroid, a potent anti-inflammatory medication, is delivered directly into a targeted area of the body. In the shoulder, these injections commonly alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and frozen shoulder. The purpose is to provide localized relief, helping to manage symptoms and improve function. Many individuals who receive these injections wonder about the safety of driving soon after the procedure.
Immediate Effects on Driving
A local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, is typically combined with the cortisone to provide immediate pain relief during and shortly after the injection. This anesthetic can cause temporary numbness, weakness, or an altered sensation in the shoulder and arm, which usually lasts for one to two hours. Such effects can directly impair the ability to grip the steering wheel firmly or react quickly, making immediate driving unsafe.
As the local anesthetic wears off, some individuals may experience a temporary increase in pain, known as a “steroid flare” or “cortisone flare,” which can occur within 12 to 24 hours post-injection. This discomfort, even if mild, could distract a driver or hinder their ability to control the vehicle effectively. Therefore, it is important to consider these temporary physical impacts when deciding whether to drive.
Key Factors for Driving Readiness
Beyond the immediate effects of the anesthetic, several considerations influence driving readiness. A healthcare provider’s specific advice is important, as it is tailored to the individual’s condition and the exact injection site. If a sling or other immobilization device is necessary post-injection, it directly obstructs the safe operation of a vehicle, making driving impossible.
An individual’s pain response is another significant factor; even without numbness, post-injection pain can impair concentration and reaction time, crucial for safe driving. Driving itself demands a full range of motion and adequate strength in the shoulder and arm for steering, shifting gears, and performing emergency maneuvers. Any limitation in these areas can compromise safety.
General Post-Injection Guidelines
Following a cortisone injection, general post-injection care recommendations often involve resting the injected shoulder. This rest period, typically for 24 to 48 hours, allows the medication to settle and begin reducing inflammation effectively, while also minimizing irritation. During this time, it is usually advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and repetitive movements with the arm.
Driving, particularly for longer durations or in heavy traffic, can be a demanding activity for the shoulder. It involves continuous arm movement and can place strain on the joint, potentially going against the general advice to limit shoulder activity and hinder the healing process. Adhering to rest guidelines implicitly suggests delaying driving.
Determining When to Drive Safely
The decision to resume driving must prioritize safety and should always be made in consultation with the healthcare provider. It is generally recommended to wait until the numbing effects of the local anesthetic have completely worn off. Driving should be avoided if there is any significant pain, weakness, or stiffness in the shoulder that could impair control of the vehicle.
Before getting behind the wheel, performing simple, non-driving related movements with the shoulder can help assess comfort and control. If any doubt or discomfort exists, arranging alternative transportation is the safer choice. Patience is important, as the full benefits of the cortisone injection may take several days to manifest, and driving too soon could potentially impede recovery.