Chronic joint pain can make everyday activities feel like uphill battles. In 2021, about 20.9% of U.S. adults (51.6 million people) experienced chronic pain, according to a study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
At Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine, we specialize in advanced, cutting-edge treatments that help athletes and active individuals in PA get back to doing what they love. Dr. Michael Wong offers personalized care and will work with you to determine the best path toward a pain-free life. Schedule an appointment today to learn how we can help.
Here are five key things you need to know about corticosteroid injections.
1. What is a corticosteroid, and how does it work?
A corticosteroid is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that mimics cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by your body. When you receive a corticosteroid injection, this medication is delivered directly to a specific area of pain and inflammation, such as a joint or tendon.
So, what does a cortisone shot do exactly? It works by blocking the body's inflammatory response at the source, which helps to decrease swelling and irritation. This targeted approach provides noticeable pain relief and improved mobility, often within just a few days. Unlike oral medications that affect the entire body, injections deliver a concentrated dose right where you need it most.
2. What conditions do corticosteroid injections treat?
Corticosteroid injections are a versatile treatment option for a wide range of musculoskeletal issues. They are particularly effective for conditions where inflammation is a primary cause of pain. Common conditions that benefit from these injections include:
- Arthritis: Including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, where joint inflammation causes pain and stiffness.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of a tendon, such as tennis elbow or Achilles tendonitis.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: To reduce swelling around the median nerve in the wrist.
- Back Pain: Injections can target inflamed nerve roots or facet joints in the spine.
3. What to expect during the procedure
A corticosteroid injection procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and typically performed right in our office. First, the treatment area is cleaned thoroughly. A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the skin and minimize discomfort.
Dr. Wong will then carefully insert a thin needle into the targeted area, sometimes using ultrasound imaging to ensure precise placement. You might feel a bit of pressure as the medication is injected. The entire process usually takes just a few minutes.
After the injection, it's common to experience a temporary increase in steroid injection pain or discomfort for a day or two. This is often called a 'cortisone flare' and typically subsides quickly. Applying ice to the area can help manage any initial soreness.
4. What are the benefits of corticosteroid injections?
The main advantage of corticosteroid injections is targeted, powerful relief from pain and inflammation. Other key benefits include:
- Minimally Invasive: It's a non-surgical option that can delay or even eliminate the need for more invasive procedures.
- Quick Relief: Many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few days.
- Improved Function: By reducing pain and swelling, injections can restore mobility and allow you to return to your daily activities and physical therapy exercises.
- Diagnostic Tool: If an injection provides relief, it helps confirm that the treated area is the source of your pain.
5. Are there potential risks or side effects?
While generally safe, there are some potential cortisone injections side effects to be aware of. These are typically rare and can be minimized when the procedure is performed by an experienced specialist like Dr. Wong. Potential risks include:
- Infection at the injection site
- Temporary whitening or thinning of the skin around the injection site
- Tendon weakening or rupture (especially with repeated injections)
- A temporary increase in blood sugar levels
- The 'cortisone flare,' or a brief period of increased pain
It's important to discuss your medical history with your doctor to determine if this treatment is right for you. The number of injections is usually limited to avoid long-term side effects.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief
Corticosteroid injections can be a highly effective solution for managing inflammation and joint pain, helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life. At Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine, Dr. Wong will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Don't let pain hold you back any longer. Schedule an appointment with Modern Edge Sports & Orthopedic Medicine today to explore if our corticosteroid injection services are the right choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What conditions can corticosteroid injections treat?
They treat conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, other inflammatory joint disorders, and chronic pain in joints such as the knees, shoulders, elbows, or hips.
How quickly will I feel relief after receiving a corticosteroid injection?
Many feel relief within days, with significant improvement typically seen in 1 to 2 weeks. Individual results vary.
How long do the effects of a corticosteroid injection last?
Relief typically lasts from several weeks to a few months, varying by condition and individual.
Are there any side effects of corticosteroid injections?
Generally safe, but temporary side effects like localized pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site can occur. Dr. Wong will review potential risks with you.
How many injections can I receive?
The number of injections depends on your condition and health. Repeated injections are usually spaced several months apart to minimize side effects. Dr. Wong will customize your treatment plan.
