Cortisone injections contain a corticosteroid, which is an anti-inflammatory medication. They are commonly used in the treatment of patients with inflammatory conditions affecting joints tendons, and bursae, such as a chronic injury or arthritis. These shots are usually injected into areas in and around the spine, hip, knee, shoulder, or wrist. Kenalog® (triamcinolone) Depo-Medrol® (methylprednisolone), and Celestone® (Betamethasone) are all examples of medication used in cortisone injections. Combined with corticosteroid medication is an anesthetic, which is what will provide immediate relief from pain.
Let’s explore how cortisone injections are administered.
Cortisone Injection Procedure
Cortisone injections can be administered in a doctor’s clinic. For the procedure, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown, depending on the location of the problem. If you are getting cortisone injections for back pain, the doctor will need to have access to the area to easily insert the needle. If you are getting cortisone injections for wrist pain or arthritis, changing into a gown is not necessary.
To start, the area around the injection site will be cleaned to prevent infection. Then, the doctor will apply an anesthetic spray to help numb the area and make sure you are comfortable during the procedure. To guide the needle into the right location, the doctor may use imaging technology. As the needle enters the skin, you may feel slight pressure, but it should not be painful. If you do feel pain or great discomfort, let your doctor know immediately.
The medication will then be released into the joint, tendon, or bursa. The anesthetic will make the pain go away immediately. It can take several days for the corticosteroid medication to work, during which the pain and other symptoms should begin to subside. Remember that corticosteroid medication is a powerful anti-inflammatory, not a pain-reliever. It is very helpful in conditions that are characterized by inflammation. When inflammation is reduced, so are pain and other symptoms. The effects of cortisone injections can last from two to three months.
It is recommended that cortisone injections be given only once every three months. More frequent use can lead to complications. For one thing, it can weaken your immune system. Second, it can damage the soft tissues especially if a larger dose is used. Talk to your doctor about the risks involved with this treatment, and how you can reap the benefits while reducing the risks.
Cortisone Injections in Naples, FL
Cortisone injections are just one of the many pain management techniques we offer at North Naples Surgery Center. Our team of orthopedic surgeons recognizes how powerful cortisone injections are in treating many musculoskeletal conditions, but make sure they are part of a comprehensive treatment program. For lasting relief from pain, we design personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Is pain preventing you from living your life? Find out your options for pain relief. Make an appointment with one of our doctors. Call us today at (239) 529-2811 or use our online appointment request form.
