As physios we often get asked by patients: Should I get a cortisone injection? 

They’re a common treatment option recommended by health professionals for the treatment of conditions such as bursitis, plantar fasciitis, nerve pain and many more. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of cortisone injections to help you make an informed decision about whether they are the right treatment option for you.

Cortisone, a type of corticosteroid, is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication injected directly into an inflamed or painful area. The aim of a cortisone injection is to provide quick and effective pain relief by reducing inflammation.

You may feel the effects immediately and usually, if used in the right circumstances, patients feel relief within a few days. The duration of the effects can vary from person to person lasting from only several days to weeks or months. 

When administered correctly and in moderation, cortisone injections have minimal side effects.

Most patients tolerate the injections well, experiencing only minor discomfort at the injection site.

The risk of serious side effects is relatively low when the injections are used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

However, there are a few potential downsides to cortisone injections.

Short-Term Solution

While cortisone injections can provide quick relief, they are a short-term solution. Cortisone injections don’t treat the root cause of your pain. They treat the symptom i.e. pain. Therefore, although you may feel great initially after the injection, the effects usually do wear off over time.

Relying solely on cortisone injections without addressing the underlying cause can lead to a cycle of temporary relief and recurring pain.

Risk of Overuse

Overuse of cortisone injections can lead to weakening of the tendons, ligaments, and bones, increasing the risk of injury.

Tendon Degeneration

Generally, cortisone injections aren’t recommended for tendon pathologies and conditions as they can weaken the tendon over time, leading to an increased risk of tendon rupture. However, in some circumstances they can be beneficial. It’s important to weigh out the pros and cons before making a decision to have an injection. 

Other Potential Side Effects

– Infection at the injection site

– Allergic reactions

– Skin discoloration

Patients should discuss these potential risks with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

Cortisone injections may be appropriate for individuals who:

 – Have not responded well to other treatments due to pain. This can include physical therapy, oral medications or lifestyle changes.

– Experience significant pain or inflammation that interferes with most daily activities

– Need short-term relief to participate in rehabilitation or physical therapy programs

Not sure if cortisone injections are right for you?

Contact our clinic today on (02) 4721 1222 for a thorough assessment and personalised treatment recommendations.

Cortisone injections are a treatment option for a vareity of painful conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions for which cortisone injections may be recommended:

 1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of cartilage within the joint. This breakdown leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling around the joint. Cortisone injections can help reduce inflammation and provide some pain relief, allowing patients to maintain joint function and improve their quality of life. This may be especially beneficial during flare-ups of your pain.  

2. Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones and tendons become inflamed. This condition is almost always associated with a tendon issue and is rarely the sole cause of your pain. This condition commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. Cortisone injections can quickly reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with bursitis, allowing you to perform your physio rehab exercises easier.  

3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. This compression leads to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers. Sometimes you can get inflammatory swelling of the nerve or structures around the nerve which can compress the space that the nerve travels through. Cortisone injections can reduce inflammation and swelling in the carpal tunnel, providing relief from symptoms.

 4. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It is usually a result of overloading the plantar fascia from doing too much too quickly, resulting in heel pain. Cortisone injections can provide significant pain relief and reduce inflammation at the painful site, helping patients regain mobility.

 5. Spinal Conditions

Cortisone injections can be used to treat various spinal conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. These conditions can cause significant pain due to inflammation around the spine. This can result in symptoms in the back and legs. Cortisone injections may help provide some pain relief and allow you to continue your therapy. 

By understanding the conditions that can benefit from cortisone injections, you can make a more informed decision about your treatment options.

If you have any questions or concerns about whether cortisone injections are suitable for your specific condition, our team of physiotherapists are here to help.

While cortisone injections can be highly effective, they are not the only treatment option available. Additionally, as mentioned above, they are usually a short-term solution that only treats the symptoms, not the underlying cause of your pain. Depending on the condition and severity, alternative treatments may be more appropriate.  

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is the cornerstone profession for the treatment of many musculoskeletal conditions. A skilled physiotherapist can design a personalised exercise program to improve strength, mobility, and joint function. Physiotherapy exercises and manual therapy can also help address the underlying causes of pain and guide you to receive long-term relief without the need for injections.

Medications

Oral or topical medications can also be effective in managing pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The main difference between cortisone and most over the counter anti-inflammatory medication is that it is stronger and injected directly into the painful structure.  

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing pain and inflammation. Weight management, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can all contribute to improved joint and musculoskeletal health. Additionally, avoiding activities that exacerbate pain and substituting them with alternatives can be beneficial. Your physio can guide you through what activities or exercises can be helpful and safe to perform, and what you should be avoiding for the time being. 

If you’re struggling with pain, don’t let it hinder your daily activities and enjoyment of life. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan.

Our experienced physiotherapists are here to help you recover quickly and prevent future injuries.

Call us now on (02) 4721 1222 or book an appointment online.

Cortisone injections can be a valuable tool in managing pain and inflammation. While they offer rapid relief for many patients, it’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits. By working with a physiotherapist and having a thorough assessment, you can make the best decision for your health. Usually it’s best to combine multiple treatment methods to achieve the best results.