Cortisone shots, also known as steroid injections, are a common medical treatment for pain and inflammation in specific areas of the body. These injections deliver corticosteroids, which reduce the immune system’s local activity, decreasing inflammation and alleviating pain. They are frequently used to treat conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis in various joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, and spine.
Icing and Cortisone Shots
Icing the injection site after a cortisone shot is recommended for comfort and to manage potential side effects. Many experience a temporary increase in pain, swelling, or irritation at the injection site, known as a “steroid flare.” This flare, which can last one to three days, occurs as the body reacts to the injected medication. Applying ice effectively reduces this localized pain and swelling.
To ice the area, use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth or towel to prevent direct contact with the skin, which can cause irritation. Apply the ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, especially during the first 24 to 48 hours after the injection. Icing is primarily for symptom relief and does not interfere with the cortisone’s anti-inflammatory effects.
Other Post-Injection Care
Beyond icing, other measures aid proper recovery and maximize the benefits of a cortisone shot. Protect the injected area for one to two days. This means avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or movements that stress the treated joint for 24 to 48 hours, or up to a week depending on the site. Gentle, low-impact activities like walking may be permissible if they do not cause discomfort.
Temporary side effects at the injection site include soreness, bruising, or mild redness. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, help manage discomfort. Keep the injection site clean and dry; avoid bathtubs, hot tubs, or swimming pools for at least 24 to 48 hours to minimize infection risk, though showering is generally acceptable. Do not apply heat to the injection site immediately after the shot, as this can increase pain and inflammation.
When to Contact a Doctor
While cortisone shots are generally safe, be aware of certain symptoms warranting medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience signs of infection, including increasing pain, persistent redness, warmth, swelling that lasts more than 48 hours, fever, or pus at the injection site. The risk of infection is very low, but it is a serious complication.
Seek medical advice for signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely, as cortisone can temporarily increase them. Any unexpected worsening of symptoms, severe pain that does not subside, or concerns about the injection’s effects warrant contacting your doctor.