What is Cortisone?
Cortisone is a corticosteroid released by the adrenal gland in response to stress and is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. A synthetic form of cortisone is used as medication and usually administered in the form of injections.
Indications for Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections are frequently used to treat a variety of conditions characterized by inflammation and pain. Here are some of the most common conditions treated with cortisone injections:
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons, the fibrous tissues connecting muscles to bones, can be painful and limit movement. Cortisone injections can help decrease the inflammation and relieve pain associated with tendonitis.
- Osteoarthritis: This condition involves the degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, leading to pain and inflammation. Cortisone injections can help reduce the inflammation and provide pain relief.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, muscles, and skin, can cause pain and discomfort. Cortisone injections can reduce this inflammation and provide relief.
- Lower Back Pain: Conditions such as spinal stenosis or ruptured disks can cause significant lower back pain. Cortisone injections can reduce inflammation around the spinal nerves and alleviate pain.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed or pinched. Cortisone injections can help reduce swelling and relieve pressure on the nerve, easing symptoms.
Cortisone injections are generally considered only when other conservative measures such as medications, physical therapy and lifestyle changes haven’t provided sufficient relief.
Risks and Complications of Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections offer significant relief in pain and inflammation; however, they may be associated with certain adverse effects. The most common side effect is a cortisone flare, a condition where cortisone crystallizes and causes severe pain for a brief period that lasts for a day or two. A cortisone flare can be minimized by applying ice to the injected area. Other adverse effects include whitening of the skin and infection at the injection site, or a transient elevation in blood sugar if you are diabetic.
