A cortisone shot is an injection of medicine that can relieve pain and reduce inflammation in specific areas of the body, such as joints, tendons, and bursae. These injections contain corticosteroids, which are manufactured drugs that resemble cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the body. They work by temporarily reducing the immune system’s activity in the injected area to decrease inflammation. Cortisone shots are a common treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis.
Immediately After Your Cortisone Shot
Immediately after a cortisone shot, walking is generally permissible, but activity should be limited for the first 24 to 48 hours. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or excessive strain on the injected area. Resting the affected area allows the medication to begin working effectively.
Some individuals may experience a “cortisone flare,” a temporary increase in pain and inflammation at the injection site, occurring within hours to a day or two. This flare is caused by corticosteroid crystallization. To manage discomfort, apply ice packs and take over-the-counter pain relievers. The pain usually subsides within 1 to 2 days.
Protecting the injected area is important. Avoid bathtubs, hot tubs, or whirlpools for two days; showering is generally acceptable.
Resuming Normal Activity
After the initial 24 to 48 hours of limited activity, patients can gradually resume normal routines, including walking. Proceed cautiously, avoiding activities that cause increased pain or discomfort. If the injection was in a lower limb joint, limit walking distances and speeds initially. For injections in areas not involved in walking, you can walk as much as comfortable.
The full effects of the cortisone shot may take a few days to a week to become apparent. While some experience rapid relief, others need more time for the corticosteroid to work. Gradually increasing activity levels after this period aids rehabilitation.
Factors Affecting Your Recovery Timeline
The recovery timeline after a cortisone shot depends on several factors. The specific joint or area injected plays a role; for example, recovery from a knee injection might differ from a shoulder injection. Injections in weight-bearing joints may require more cautious activity progression compared to those in upper limbs.
The underlying condition being treated also influences the timeline; a minor bursitis might have a quicker recovery than severe arthritis. An individual’s overall health and activity levels also affect how quickly they return to usual routines. The specific instructions from your healthcare provider are important, as they tailor advice to your unique circumstances.
Important Considerations and When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you experience certain signs after a cortisone shot. Call your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or worsening pain, especially if it lasts more than 48 hours. Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, significant swelling, pus, or fever, require immediate medical attention.
Other symptoms to monitor include new numbness or weakness, severe dizziness, or changes in eyesight. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently for a few days, as cortisone can temporarily increase them. Always follow your healthcare provider’s post-injection instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments.