Joint pain and stiffness can significantly interrupt an active lifestyle. Everyday tasks like climbing the stairs, tending to household chores, and washing the dishes can become painful and difficult to perform. For athletes, mobility problems due to pain can be that much more frustrating. Cortisone injections can help relieve pain and enable individuals to maintain an active lifestyle.
At EmergeOrtho we offer precision diagnosis and a progressive approach to medicine. This means that our board-certified physicians know exactly when cortisone injections are appropriate. It also means that we carefully assess which candidates can safely receive cortisone shots and who will benefit the most. Do not remain in pain, when EmergeOrtho physicians have the top-quality, sophisticated care you deserve.
What Is the Difference Between Steroid and Cortisone Injections?
Many people are curious about what differentiates a steroid injection from a cortisone shot. When discussing steroid and cortisone injections for orthopedic related conditions, the two terms are referring to the same injection product. Anabolic steroids, commonly associated with increased athletic performance, are not in the injection product.
Corticosteroids contain cortisone designed to mimic the body’s natural production of cortisol. Cortisone, like cortisol, reduces inflammation. When injected into tissues and joints, cortisone shots help to alleviate pain caused by swelling. This is a common treatment for conditions such as:
When Is a Cortisone Shot Needed
When a person experiences pain caused by swelling, an orthopedic physician may recommend a cortisone shot. Patients are often curious as to who gives cortisone shots. An orthopedic doctor or physician assistant is skilled and practiced in administering cortisone shots to temporarily relieve pain and inflammation.
The orthopedic specialist pinpoints the exact area of pain and injects a high concentration of cortisone. Typically, the medication reaches the source of inflammation quickly. Many patients experience relief within two or three days, however it can sometimes take up to a week to take effect.
Some of the most common areas of the body treated with cortisone injections include the joints of the:
- Knee
- Ankle
- Elbow
- Wrist
- Spine
- Shoulder
- Hip
In some scenarios, patients may gain relief in smaller joints from corticosteroids.
At EmergeOrtho, our subspecialty board-certified physicians specialize in providing the following cortisone injections:
- Lumbar transforaminal
- Trans foraminal epidurals
- Cervical epidurals and sacroiliac joint
- Lumbar/Cervical ESI
Risks and Benefits of Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections have minimal side effects and relatively long-lasting results. Many patients choose cortisone injections as opposed to oral anti-inflammatory medications. It is also important to note that cortisone shots may not be suitable for all patients. This is why consulting with a subspecialty orthopedic expert is important.
EmergeOrtho physicians are dedicated to providing compassionate care. We work closely with our patients to find minimally invasive techniques to help alleviate pain. With a tradition of excellence and superior-quality care that spans several decades, EmergeOrtho remains a leader in orthopedic treatment.
Do you want to know if cortisone injections are right for you? Request a visit with one of our EmergeOrtho doctors now. During your visit, your physician will review whether you are a candidate for a cortisone injection, potential pain-relief duration, and other important details.