Your body naturally produces an anti-inflammatory chemical called cortisol as a response to stress. This hormone functions as pain reducer, immune-booster, and increases energy for a brief period. Cortisone injections are administered as anti-inflammatory and pain relief measures. Cortisone injections are chemically similar to your body's natural hormones, but are synthetic. Cortisone is also injected into the affected tissue, rather than into the bloodstream, so it acts strictly at the site of pain.
The anti-inflammatory effect of cortisone injections lasts much longer than the hormone cortisol which generally wears off after a few minutes; the effects of cortisone can last a few days. However, cortisone does not relieve pain. The reduced swelling that results from cortisone injections may result in reduced pane. Injections are also typically given in tandem with a local anesthetic, which may numb the pain somewhat. Cortisone shots are commonly administered to patients suffering from arthritis, bursitis, and carpal tunnel.
The injections are by and large harmless, and patients usually respond favorably to cortisone. However, the injections can be rather painful, particularly if the complaint is inflammation in the joints. If pain is a concern, the doctor will apply a topical numbing cream. On occasion, cortisone flare can result, either because of the body's reaction to the puncture, or because of crystallization in the cortisone. If crystallization occurs, the soft tissue surrounding the joints could become inflamed, resulting in greater pain than before the treatment. In the case of cortisone flare, allow the affected area a break from vigorous activity, and apply ice packs. Over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprophen can also help. In darker-skinned individuals, the skin around the site of the injection may take on a pale, chalky appearance, but this is harmless and will go away.
Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels following a cortisone injection, as the chemical can cause a spike in blood sugar in some cases. Infections are rare as a result of cortisone injections, and if the skin and the medical equipment are properly sterilized, this shouldn't be an issue. However, an infection that follows injecting cortisone directly into the joints should be immediately addressed, for if bacteria are introduced to the joint, it can permanently damage the joint's function.
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice fever or fluid drainage at the site of the injection. Allergies to cortisone shots are not a concern, as the chemical so closely mimics the body's natural hormones. However, there is a possibility that the solution used to sterilize the site of the injection could cause an allergic reaction. Let your doctor know about any allergies you may have. Cortisone injections can provide great relief to inflamed tissues as a result of osteoarthritis, tendinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, or bursitis. Your doctor may suggest you find an additional pain management strategy, as repeated cortisone shots can result in weakened tendons and softened cartilage. Three injections are usually the limit.
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