What is a Cortisone Injection?
Cortisone injections are performed by physicians to help relieve pain by reducing inflammation in a specific area of your body. Most frequently, these injections are performed in joints to treat things like trigger finger, or pain in you knees, shoulders, elbows, or hips where warranted.
How do I get a corticosteroid injection?
First, a physician must determine that a cortisone injection is a reasonable course of action. They will then write you a prescription to pick up cortisone, which you can do at any pharmacy. You will then return to the physician, who will review the risks and benefits of the elective procedure with you prior to performing it.
What is the injection procedure like?
When getting an injection, your doctor may request that you change into a gown depending on where the injection is taking place. The doctor will use sterile precautions before the injection, which is typically done by cleaning the area around the injection site, and the application of an anesthetic to numb the injection area. Like any injection, you’ll likely still feel some pressure as the needle is inserted.
How many can you get?
While a corticosteroid injection may help alleviate inflammation, repeat injections may cause the cartilage to deteriorate. Due to this concern, you should not get more than three to four corticosteroid injections within a year.
What do I do after the injection?
After any injection, it’s important to watch out for signs of infection (swelling, redness, and increased pain) over the next 48 hours. One can apply ice over the injection site to relieve discomfort, but heating pads are not recommended. It’s also important to protect the injection site for 48 hours after the procedure. For instance, refrain from prolonged standing if you had an injection to you knee, or any heavy lifting if you had an injection in your shoulder.