Cortisone injections are a common medical procedure used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, particularly in joints affected by conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, or bursitis. While often providing significant relief, some individuals may experience a temporary increase in symptoms shortly after the procedure. This reaction, known as a cortisone or steroid flare, is a common, short-lived side effect. Understanding this can help individuals anticipate and manage the experience.
What a Cortisone Flare Feels Like
A cortisone flare typically manifests as a worsening of pain and inflammation at the injection site. This discomfort can feel like an aggravation of the original condition. Individuals commonly report intense pain, noticeable swelling, warmth, and mild redness in the treated area. Some describe a sensation of pressure within the joint.
This localized reaction is confined to the area that received the injection. While initial pain relief from a local anesthetic may wear off, flare symptoms can then emerge. This temporary setback does not indicate that the injection has failed.
Why Cortisone Flares Occur and How Long They Last
Cortisone flares occur due to the body’s reaction to the corticosteroid medication. The injection contains slow-release crystals designed to provide long-term pain relief. However, these microscopic crystals can temporarily irritate surrounding structures, triggering a localized inflammatory response.
A cortisone flare typically begins within hours to a few days after the injection, often within 24 to 48 hours. The discomfort usually peaks within the first 24 hours. These reactions are almost always brief and self-limiting. Most flares subside within 24 to 72 hours, though some individuals might experience symptoms for up to five days. As the initial irritation resolves and the corticosteroid begins to exert its anti-inflammatory effects, the intended pain relief usually follows.
Managing a Cortisone Flare and When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing a cortisone flare primarily involves simple, at-home measures. Applying ice packs to the injection site can help reduce inflammation and pain. It is recommended to apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Resting the affected area and avoiding strenuous activities for a day or two after the injection also helps inflammation subside. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can manage pain if icing alone is insufficient.
It is important to distinguish a normal cortisone flare from more serious complications like an infection. While a flare is temporary and localized, signs of infection warrant immediate medical attention. These signs include increasing pain, spreading redness, significant swelling that worsens, warmth at the injection site lasting more than 48 hours, fever, chills, or pus coming from the area. If pain becomes severe, unmanageable, or persists beyond a few days, contacting a healthcare provider for guidance is advisable.