: CORTISONE INJECTION

If you need a cortisone injection, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Cortisone Injection?

A cortisone injection, also known as a corticosteroid injection, is a common medical procedure used to alleviate pain and inflammation in various parts of the body. It involves injecting a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected area, such as a joint, tendon, bursa, or around a nerve, to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of the body’s natural hormones called corticosteroids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. When injected locally into a specific site of inflammation, cortisone can help suppress the body’s immune response and reduce inflammation, leading to pain relief and improved function.

Conditions Treated with Cortisone Injections: Cortisone injections are commonly used to treat a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including:

1. Joint Inflammation: Cortisone injections are often used to manage pain and inflammation associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
2. Tendonitis: Tendonitis is the inflammation of tendons, and cortisone injections may be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in conditions like tennis elbow and rotator cuff tendonitis.
3. Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints. Cortisone injections can be effective in reducing bursitis-related pain and inflammation.
4. Nerve Inflammation: Cortisone injections around nerves can be used to treat conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica.
5. Allergic Reactions: In certain cases, cortisone injections may be used to manage severe allergic reactions and skin conditions like contact dermatitis.
6. Chondromalacia Patella: Also known as runner’s knee, is a relatively common condition, particularly among young adults and athletes.

The Cortisone Injection Procedure: The cortisone injection procedure is typically performed in a healthcare provider’s office or an outpatient setting. It is a relatively quick and straightforward process, involving the following steps:

1. Preparation: The affected area is cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Anesthesia: A local anesthetic may be used to numb the injection site and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
3. Injection: The cortisone medication is injected directly into the affected area using a syringe and a fine needle.
4. Post-Injection Care: After the injection, patients are usually advised to rest the affected area for a short time and avoid any strenuous activities.

Benefits and Potential Side Effects: The primary benefit of cortisone injections is the rapid and targeted relief of pain and inflammation. However, it is essential to note that cortisone injections are not a cure for the underlying condition, and their effects are typically temporary.

Potential side effects of cortisone injections may include temporary pain or discomfort at the injection site, a transient increase in pain before the cortisone takes effect, and, rarely, infection or allergic reactions. Repeated or excessive use of cortisone injections can lead to tissue damage or weaken structures like tendons, so healthcare providers usually limit the number of injections given in a specific area over time.

As with any medical procedure, cortisone injections should be administered by a qualified healthcare professional who can properly assess the patient’s condition and determine if the injection is appropriate for the specific condition.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.