Cortisone shots quickly relieve joint pain. But they may not be the answer for every orthopedic condition.
Cortisone, or corticosteroid, shots have been the go-to treatment for painful inflammatory conditions of the joints for more than 70 years. These shots can provide near immediate pain relief and a significant reduction in inflammation in the tendons or other soft tissues surrounding the joint.
Despite the widespread use of steroid injections in orthopedic care, misconceptions swirl around cortisone shots. Many believe the shots are unsafe and will not take them. Others view the treatment as a cure-all for all joint ailments. Many are confused about what exactly a cortisone shot contains.
The truth is that neither position is correct. Cortisone shots for joint pain can be a safe and effective pain management strategy for some patients depending on the condition. However, cortisone may not be the right solution for every type of joint pain. As with any orthopedic therapy, cortisone shots have benefits and risks.
What is a Cortisone Shot?
A cortisone shot refers to an injection of corticosteroid, a synthetic version of a natural hormone produced in the body known as cortisol — aka, the stress hormone. Your body’s immune system sends out cortisol to decrease inflammation after an injury. The corticosteroid works similarly to tamp down that inflammatory response.
Understanding Corticosteroids
- Corticosteroids are used to fight inflammation and pain
- Chronic inflammation often leads to joint pain and stiffness
- Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication
- Cortisone can be given orally, by injection, or IV infusion
- Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of testosterone for building muscles and are not corticosteroids
What Happens During an Injection?
A cortisol shot for joint pain typically takes place in an office setting. The injection can be made in any joint, but usually is performed on shoulders, hands, hips, knees, hands, feet, and the lower spine.
- Medication is delivered directly into a joint, tendon sheath, bursa (a small fluid-filled sac cushioning the bones and tendons in the joint), or the soft tissues in the joint
- The physician may use ultrasound to guide the shot
- Often combined with a local anesthetic
- Typically performed in-office under local anesthetic
How Cortisone Shots Work, and How they Don’t
Like cortisol, a cortisone injection targets inflammation to reduce joint pain. It’s often used as part of an overall treatment plan. Each patient may experience a different outcome based on their condition and its severity.
Cortisone shots do have limitations. A physician can decide if cortisone is your best shot for pain relief.
Reducing Inflammation
- Cortisone suppresses the body’s inflammatory response
- Less inflammation often means less pain and improved mobility
Why Relief Can Vary
- Some patients experience relief within days
- Others may take one to two weeks to notice improvement
- Duration varies depending on the condition being treated
What Cortisone Does Not Do
- It does not repair torn ligaments
- It does not heal broken bones
- It does not regrow cartilage
- It does not cure arthritis
Conditions Where Cortisone Shots Often Help
A corticosteroid injection for orthopedic disorders can be a successful treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. The main benefit is rapid relief of pain for better joint mobility.
Osteoarthritis
- Temporary reduction of inflammation and pain in the cartilage..
- Can improve function and quality of life.
Bursitis (an inflammation of the bursa in a joint)
- Shoulder bursitis
- Hip bursitis
- Elbow bursitis (golfer’s elbow)
Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon)
- Rotator cuff tendonitis in the shoulder
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis (pain along the thumb side of the wrist)
- Other inflammatory tendon conditions
Trigger Finger
- Inflammation of the tendon sheath in a finger
- Can develop in any finger, including the thumb
- Common non-surgical treatment option
Certain Spine Conditions
- Epidural steroid injections for nerve irritation and inflammation.
- Targeted injections in the lower back.
When Cortisone Shots May Not Be the Best Option
Not every case of joint pain can be relieved by a cortisone shot if the underlying condition isn’t addressed. Severe soft tissue damage or a rupture is not likely to be healed by a cortisone shot.
Advanced Joint Damage
- Severe arthritis may not respond well to injections alone.
- Pain relief may be short-lived.
Structural Injuries
- Meniscus tears
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
- Rotator cuff tears
- Hip labral tears
- Bone fractures
Mechanical Problems
- Conditions where pain comes from joint instability, alignment/posture issues, or significant tissue damage rather than inflammation
Repetitive Overuse Without Correction
- Injections may reduce pain temporarily, but symptoms often return if underlying movement issues aren’t modified
Common Myths About Cortisone Shots
Don’t fall for the myths about cortisone shots. Know the facts.
Myth: Cortisone Shots Cure Arthritis
- They help manage symptoms but don’t reverse joint degeneration.
Myth: One Shot Fixes Everything
- Relief varies based on diagnosis and severity. You may receive one shot, or several, depending on the doctor’s advice.
Myth: Cortisone is Dangerous for Everyone
- Most injections are safe when used appropriately in certain circumstances.
- Not recommended if you take blood thinners.
- Stop any cortisone shots three months before surgery.
Myth: You Can Get Unlimited Injections
- Repeated injections may carry risks and are typically limited to 2 to 3 times a year.
Cortisone Shot Benefits and Risks
Before an injection, ask your physician about cortisone shot benefits and disadvantages. It will help you make an informed decision.
Benefits
Fast Pain Relief
- Often works faster than many oral medications.
Improved Mobility
- Can make physical therapy and exercise easier for quicker healing.
Reduced Dependence on Medication
- May decrease reliance on anti-inflammatory drugs or prescription pain medications.
Potential to Delay Surgery
- Some patients achieve long-lasting symptom control without the need for surgery.
Risks and Side Effects
Temporary Flare Reaction
- Brief increase in pain after injection.
Skin Changes
- Lightening of skin color near the injection site.
- Fat loss under the skin.
Elevated Blood Sugar
- Important consideration for patients with diabetes.
Tendon Weakening
- Particularly with repeated injections around certain tendons.
Infection (Rare)
- Extremely uncommon but possible.
How Long Do Cortisone Shots Last?
Not everyone responds to a cortisone shot the same way. A number of factors can affect their effectiveness.
Why Results Vary
- Condition being treated
- Severity of inflammation
- Activity level
- Individual response
Typical Timeframes
- Can resolve discomfort in days
- Weeks to months for many patients
- Some experience significant long-term relief
- Others receive only temporary improvement
Why Follow-Up Matters
- Assess response
- Adjust treatment plan as needed
Cortisone Shots vs Other Orthopedic Treatments
For all their effectiveness, cortisone shots are just one of many treatments for joint pain. Explore other therapies with your doctor to relieve your discomfort.
Physical Therapy
- Addresses strength, mobility, and movement mechanics
- Often used alongside injections
Oral Medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain relievers
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
- Replaces lost synovial fluid that lubricates the joint
- Sometimes used for knee osteoarthritis
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
- Uses your own blood cells to heal tissue
- Emerging option for selected conditions
Surgery
- Considered only when conservative treatments fail
Questions Orthopedic Specialists Consider Before Recommending an Injection
Your doctor will carefully weigh a number of factors before ordering a cortisone shot.
What’s Causing the Pain?
- Accurate diagnosis comes first
- Diagnosis directs treatment
Is Inflammation the Main Driver?
- Cortisone works best when inflammation is involved
- Not recommended for structural damage
What Are the Patient’s Goals?
- Returning to sports
- Improving daily activities
- Managing arthritis symptoms
Are There Medical Considerations?
- Diabetes
- Infection risk
- Previous injections
How New York Bone & Joint Uses Cortisone Injections as Part of a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
The orthopedic physicians at New York Bone & Joint Specialists employ a variety of options for relief of joint pain. We may recommend a cortisone shot as part of our overall therapeutic approach.
Accurate Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Imaging when appropriate
Personalized Treatment Recommendations
- Not every patient needs an injection.
- Injections are one tool among many.
Combining Injections with Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- Strengthening programs
- Mobility improvement
Surgical Expertise When Needed
- If injections are no longer providing meaningful relief
Take a Shot At Pain Relief
Cortisone shots have been used for decades for quick relief of joint pain and inflammation. With less discomfort, patients can participate in physical therapy to gain greater mobility and possibly resolve joint pain. The shots are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan, and may help you avoid surgery.
But cortisone shots are not a cure for every orthopedic condition. One of the expert orthopedists at NYBJ can discuss the pros and cons of cortisone shots and how they could fit into your treatment plan. We always want our patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
If joint pain is limiting your mobility, schedule an evaluation with NYBJ to determine whether a cortisone injection — or another treatment option — is right for you. Reach out to us to live pain-free.
FAQs
How long does it take for a cortisone shot to work?
Many people begin to notice pain relief within a few days of receiving a cortisone injection, although it can take up to one or two weeks for the full effects to develop. The timing depends on the condition being treated, the severity of inflammation, and your individual response to the medication.
How long do cortisone shots last?
The duration of pain relief varies from person to person. Some patients experience relief for several weeks, while others may benefit for several months. Factors such as the underlying condition, activity level, and overall joint health all influence how long a cortisone injection remains effective.
Are cortisone shots safe?
When administered by an experienced orthopedic specialist, cortisone injections are generally considered safe. Like any medical treatment, they carry some risks, including temporary pain at the injection site, elevated blood sugar, skin changes, or, rarely, infection. Your physician will determine whether a cortisone injection is appropriate based on your medical history and diagnosis.
Can a cortisone shot cure arthritis or repair a torn ligament?
No. Cortisone injections reduce inflammation and relieve pain, but they do not repair torn ligaments, heal fractures, regrow cartilage, or reverse arthritis. They are often used as one part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include physical therapy, activity modification, or other orthopedic treatments.
How many cortisone shots can I receive in one joint?
Most orthopedic specialists recommend limiting cortisone injections in the same joint to two or three per year. Receiving injections too frequently may increase the risk of tendon weakening or cartilage damage. Your doctor will recommend a treatment schedule based on your condition, symptoms, and long-term joint health.
