Traditionally a more common and well-known approach, cortisone injections are used by orthopedic specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics to treat a wide variety of conditions. Derived from a type of steroid called corticosteroids that became popular because of their strong anti-inflammatory properties and instant pain relief, cortisone injections are most commonly administered to reduce joint inflammation and pain and get people back to their everyday activities.
Considered a short-term solution, cortisone injections act as more of a band-aid to the underlying issue and require close monitoring, as frequent usage can cause tissue damage and unwanted side effects. While the injection reduces pain, it typically doesn’t cure the underlying problem causing the inflammation.
What is a cortisone shot good for?
Cortisone shots effectively treat conditions like arthritis, tendonitis and bursitis, among others. These injections target inflammation to relieve acute injuries or chronic conditions causing joint pain. However, since they are not intended for frequent use, your doctor will guide you on how often you can have a cortisone injection to minimize risks. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we administer cortisone judiciously and as part of a broader interventional pain management plan.
What to expect after a cortisone shot?
You may notice initial soreness or swelling at the injection site, which typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Many patients experience noticeable pain relief within a few days, but for some, it takes up to a week to feel the full effects. Rest the treated area and avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours to allow the medication to work effectively. Your doctor may recommend certain follow-up care or physical therapy to maximize the injection’s benefits.
How long does a cortisone injection last?
Relief from a cortisone shot typically lasts a few weeks to several months, depending on the condition and the individual’s response. Many patients enjoy significant pain reduction and improved mobility during this period, allowing them to participate in physical therapy or other treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of their pain.
Where can I get a cortisone injection?
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides cortisone injections, with experienced medical providers administering treatment based on your unique situation. Our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, Mooresville and Tipton, IN, make it easy to access the care you need.
You have had a corticosteroid injection with anesthetic.
- This is an anesthetic (numbing medicine) and a steroid mixed together.
- The anesthetic may help initially with pain and the site of the injections may feel numb for the next 4-6 hours.
- When this medicine wears off, you may have an increase in your pain. Patients often describe this as a "full" or "tight" feeling. Do not be alarmed. This feeling will go away.
- You may not feel relief from the steroid right away. On average, the steroid begins to take its pain-relieving effect in 2-3 days but may take up to 14 days.
Side effects:
You may have some bleeding, a bruise of feel tender at the site. An ice pack or your usual pain medicine may help. Do not use heat for 24 hours. There are side effects that could happen from the steroid medicine. these are much less common than the side effects from oral steroids but include:
- Increase in local pain
- Headaches that go away within 24 hours
- Red or hot face
- Anxiety
- Sleeplessness
- Fever the night of injection
- High blood sugar. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar carefully
- A decrease in your body's ability to resist infections for a short time
- A change in the skin color at the injection site
- Infections can happen but are extremely rare
- Further cartilage or other tissue damage including avascular necrosis
Please call us if any of the following happen:
- Fever over 101 F
- Redness or drainage at the injection site
- Increase in pain at the injection site
- New weakness, numbness or tingling at or below the level of the injections
- Severe headache that does not go away
Activity:
- We may ask you to do physical therapy. Do your therapy as instructed. This will help you get the best results from the injection.
- Restrictions:
- No strenuous activities on the day of the injection
- You can gradually re-introduce activity as your pain allows
- Do not submerge the injection site under water for 48 hours. You may shower but no baths or hot tubs where the site would be completely submerged under water.
Our very own Dr. Matthew Negaard specializes in ultrasound-guided injections, PRP treatments, orthobiologics and sports medicine. Whether you’re considering cortisone, PRP, or other treatments, we’ll help you overcome obstacles to achieve the best possible outcomes. Contact us today to request a consultation at one of our offices in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, Mooresville or Tipton, IN.
