Joint pain can be frustrating. Whether it’s your knee, shoulder, hip, or another joint, it can interfere with everything from walking the dog to reaching for a coffee cup. If you’re looking for relief and have heard of cortisone shots, you might be wondering whether they’re right for you.
Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can feel more confident about your options.
What Is a Cortisone Shot?
A cortisone shot is an injection that delivers a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into a joint or soft tissue. It usually contains a corticosteroid (a type of steroid, not the same as anabolic steroids used by bodybuilders) and a local anesthetic to help reduce pain quickly.
Cortisone shots are commonly used for:
- Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout flare-ups
They’re typically done in a doctor’s office and the procedure takes just a few minutes.
How Does It Work?
Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or stress, but when it sticks around too long, it can cause pain and swelling. The steroid in a cortisone shot helps calm that inflammation.
Some people feel relief in just a day or two. For others, it may take up to a week to notice a difference. The effects can last for several weeks, months,or even longer, depending on the cause and severity of your joint issue.
Who Might Benefit?
Cortisone shots can be a great option for people who:
- Are dealing with stubborn joint pain that hasn’t improved with rest, physical therapy, or over-the-counter medications
- Want temporary relief to help them get through physical therapy or rehab
- Are trying to delay or avoid surgery
Keep in mind that cortisone is not a cure. It doesn’t rebuild cartilage or fix the root cause of joint damage. But it can give you enough relief to stay active, move more comfortably, and continue other treatments that support long-term health.
Are There Any Risks?
Like any medical treatment, cortisone shots come with potential side effects.
These may include:
- Temporary flare-up of pain after the injection
- Skin thinning or lightening at the injection site
- Short-term increase in blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes
- Joint infection or damage (very rare with proper technique)
Doctors usually limit how many cortisone shots you can get in one joint in a year, often no more than three or four. Too many injections over time may weaken the joint or surrounding tissue.
When Should You Talk to Your Doctor?
If joint pain is affecting your daily life or not improving with basic treatments like ice, heat, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers, it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider.
Cortisone might be one option, but your doctor can help decide if it’s the right choice based on your diagnosis, medical history, and goals. They might also suggest imaging like an X-ray or MRI to get a clearer picture before moving forward.
The Bottom Line
Cortisone shots are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but they can be a helpful tool for managing joint pain, especially when used wisely and as part of a broader treatment plan.
Many of the people I care for have benefited from steroid injections. They get quick pain relief that often lasts for months and can continue living the life they desire, all without taking another pill.
If you’re tired of hurting and ready to feel better, a conversation with your doctor is a great next step. Relief could be closer than you think.
