Cortisone / Corticosteroid Injection

What is Cortisone?

Cortisone refers to a group of medications known as corticosteroids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. These medications can be administered orally, intravenously (IV), or through local injection. Cortisone injections are widely used to treat musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal inflammatory conditions by delivering targeted relief to affected areas.

Why Inject Cortisone?

When taken orally or through IV, corticosteroids circulate throughout the entire body, leading to potential unwanted side effects. A local cortisone injection allows for a high concentration of the medication to be delivered directly to the site of inflammation. This method is generally well tolerated and minimizes systemic side effects.

Cortisone as a Diagnostic Tool

In addition to providing pain relief, cortisone injections can also serve as a diagnostic tool. If an injection significantly reduces pain in a specific area, it confirms that the targeted structure is the source of pain. This can be especially useful in complex cases where multiple potential pain sources exist. Our doctors may use cortisone injections to help refine a diagnosis and guide further treatment options.

Conditions Treated with Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are effective in treating a variety of conditions, including:

Joint Problems (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
Tendon Issues (e.g., tendinopathies such as Achilles or rotator cuff tendinitis)
Bursitis (e.g., trochanteric, subacromial bursitis)
Nerve-Related Pain (e.g., sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome)
Disc-Related Problems (e.g., herniated or degenerative discs)
Other Inflammatory Conditions where cortisone can help reduce pain and swelling

Common Side Effects

While cortisone injections are generally safe, they do carry some risks, including:

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergies to cortisone, local anesthetics, antiseptic solutions, latex, or adhesive bandages. Most reactions are mild and resolve on their own.
Post-Injection Activation: Some people experience facial flushing, increased alertness, and temporary difficulty sleeping within the first 24 hours after an injection. This effect resolves on its own.
Skin Changes: Localized bruising and skin discoloration may occur, especially when cortisone is injected near the surface.
Infection: Although rare (1 in 10,000 chance), infections can occur, typically 48 hours or more post-injection. Symptoms include redness, warmth, increased pain, fever, or sweats. If these signs appear, seek urgent medical attention.
Tendon Rupture: Injecting cortisone directly into a tendon can weaken its fibers, increasing the risk of rupture. Using ultrasound-guided techniques helps reduce this risk.
Effect on Diabetes: Cortisone injections may temporarily affect blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals with diabetes. Monitoring blood glucose closely for a few days post-injection is recommended.

How Many Cortisone Injections Can I Have?

Cortisone provides effective short-term pain relief and improved function, typically lasting around six weeks, depending on the type of cortisone used. However, repeated injections should be approached with caution, as excessive cortisone exposure can soften joint cartilage and weaken tendons. If pain persists despite multiple injections, reassessment of the condition and alternative treatments may be necessary.

Post-Injection Care

To maximize the benefits of a cortisone injection and minimize complications:

Rest the injected area for 48 hours, avoiding strenuous activities or rehabilitation exercises.
Gradual return to activity should be based on the condition being treated. Gentle strengthening exercises may resume after 48 hours.
Follow-up consultation with our doctors is recommended to monitor progress and determine the next steps in your treatment plan.

If you are unsure about your recovery timeline or need specific advice on returning to activity, consult our doctors for personalized guidance.

OUR APPROACH

1

ASSESSMENT

We conduct a thorough evaluation to determine whether a cortisone injection is the most appropriate treatment option.

2

PREPARATION

To ensure precision and safety, we use ultrasound imaging to accurately deliver the medication to the affected area.

3

PERSONAL PLAN

Cortisone injections are often part of a broader management plan. modifications.

4

INJECTION

The medication or regenerative treatment is delivered to the affected area.

5

MONITORING

We track patient progress and adjust treatment strategies as needed, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Book your assessment today

Our comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive the most effective and appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. Whether it’s an acute sports injury or chronic musculoskeletal pain, our team at GC Sports Med is dedicated to helping individuals recover and return to their active lifestyle.

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