Cortisone injections have become a go-to option for many patients dealing with joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness. But are they a long-term solution, or just a temporary reprieve?
In this article, we’ll break down how cortisone injections work, discuss their benefits and risks, and help you understand when they should be part of your broader treatment plan. Whether you’re looking for a cortisone injection for joint pain or exploring non-surgical orthopedic treatments, this guide will give you the clarity you need.
What Are Cortisone Injections?
Cortisone injections deliver corticosteroid medication directly into an inflamed joint or soft tissue, reducing swelling, pain, and irritation. Common joint injection sites include the knee, hip, shoulder, and spine.
They are often combined with a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.
How Do Cortisone Shots Provide Relief?
- Anti-inflammatory effect: Cortisone blocks the body’s inflammatory response by reducing cytokines and white blood cell activity.
- Reduced swelling: Less inflammation eases pressure and pain in the joint.
- Improved mobility: When swelling decreases, patients often regain range of motion and active use of the joint.
You can expect improvements within a few days, though it may take up to two weeks for full benefit.
Common Uses for Cortisone Injections
Cortisone shots are frequently used for:
- Osteoarthritis (knee, hip, shoulder)
- Bursitis (e.g., trochanteric, subacromial)
- Tendinitis or tendinopathy (e.g., elbow, knee, shoulder)
- Morton’s neuroma and other soft-tissue conditions
- Sacroiliac or spinal facet joint pain
Guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology support their use for short-term relief of joint pain caused by osteoarthritis or bursitis.
Benefits of Cortisone Injections
- Fast-acting relief: Symptoms often improve within days.
- Excellent for inflammation: Particularly effective when swelling is the primary source of pain.
- Minimally invasive: Performed in-office with little downtime.
- Diagnostic benefit: Relief after injection helps confirm the source of joint pain.
Limitations & Risks
Despite the advantages, corticosteroid injections have important limitations:
- Temporary effect: Relief may last weeks or months, rarely longer-term.
- Cartilage impact: Frequent injections may weaken cartilage. Experts often limit to 3–4 per year in one joint.
- Side effects: Temporary joint flushing, skin lightening, blood sugar spikes, or infection (rare).
- Masking underlying issues: Relief can sometimes hide deeper structural problems.
When Should You Consider Cortisone?
Candidates for cortisone injections include:
- Moderate-to-severe joint pain not relieved with NSAIDs or physical therapy
- Need for fast relief to aid participation in rehab
- Pain due to soft-tissue inflammation, like bursitis or tendonitis
It’s important to see an orthopedic specialist in New York who can evaluate your condition and confirm that a cortisone shot is appropriate.
Cortisone: Part of a Larger Treatment Plan
Cortisone injections work best when paired with:
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint mechanics
- Lifestyle modifications like weight loss and activity adjustments
- Supportive treatments such as bracing, orthotics, or shockwave therapy
- Surgical follow-up for cases where joint repair or replacement may be needed
This combination helps ensure that relief is sustained and the underlying problem is addressed, whether achieving success with conservative care or preparing for surgery.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Is my joint ready for a cortisone injection?
- How many injections are safe in one year?
- How should I manage rehab after the shot?
- Are there non-cortisone alternatives like hyaluronic acid or PRP?
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
If joint pain is limiting your quality of life or if you’re seeking long-term solutions, consult a shoulder pain doctor near you or a pain management specialist in New York. A full evaluation will help determine if cortisone is a good fit or if you’d benefit more from non-surgical or surgical treatments.
Call us at 516-524-0000 or visit briancapognamd.com to explore your options.
People Also Ask
Are cortisone injections good for joint pain?
Yes, they provide short-term relief and reduce inflammation, but they are not a standalone long-term solution.
How often can you get cortisone shots?
Most guidelines recommend limiting injections to three or four per year in a single joint to protect cartilage health.
Is cortisone or PRP better?
Both have roles. Cortisone provides fast relief, while platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may promote healing longer-term. Ask your specialist for guidance.
What are the side effects of cortisone shots?
Possible side effects include temporary flushing, blood sugar increase, mild infection risk, and skin changes around the injection site.