Cortisone shots are a common treatment option for shoulder pain, aiming to reduce inflammation and discomfort. Understanding the experience during and after the procedure can help manage expectations.
What to Expect During the Injection
A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin and underlying tissues. You might feel a brief stinging sensation as the numbing agent is administered, similar to a quick pinch.
As the needle advances into the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues, some individuals report a feeling of pressure or a dull ache. This sensation is fleeting and indicates the medication is being delivered to the target area. The entire injection procedure is quick, taking only a few minutes.
Post-Injection Sensations
After the injection, it is common to experience some temporary soreness in the shoulder. This sensation is known as a “cortisone flare” and can occur as the local anesthetic wears off, before the corticosteroid reduces inflammation. This flare is attributed to the steroid crystals irritating the joint or surrounding tissues.
The cortisone flare can include increased pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. It usually lasts for 24 to 48 hours, though some individuals may experience it for up to three days. Applying ice to the area and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage this discomfort.
Understanding Potential Reactions
Beyond the localized pain or flare, other reactions to a cortisone shot can occur, though serious complications are uncommon. Some individuals may experience temporary facial flushing or a feeling of warmth in the chest and face. For those with diabetes, a temporary increase in blood sugar levels is possible, which usually subsides within a few days to a week.
Less frequently, changes to the skin at the injection site, such as lightening or thinning, may develop. Rarely, more significant issues like joint infection can occur, though the risk is very low, estimated at less than 1 in 20,000 cases. If you notice increasing pain, redness, swelling that worsens, or fever, it is advisable to contact your doctor immediately.
When Relief Begins
Pain relief from a cortisone shot in the shoulder does not happen instantly. While the local anesthetic provides immediate, temporary numbness, the anti-inflammatory effects of the corticosteroid take time to develop. Most people begin to notice a reduction in pain within 3 to 7 days after the injection.
For some individuals, significant relief may take up to two weeks, and the full benefits might not be apparent for up to six weeks. The duration of relief can vary considerably, lasting from several weeks to a few months, or sometimes longer, depending on the underlying condition and individual response. The injection aims to reduce inflammation, which then leads to a decrease in pain, allowing for improved function and potentially facilitating physical therapy.