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Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury. It helps protect the damaged tissue and supports healing. But, if inflammation persists, it can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling that make everyday movement difficult.
When pain continues despite rest or medication, it is often a sign that the inflammation needs more targeted care. Cortisone shots target inflammation at its source.
By reducing irritation in a joint or surrounding tissue, they give your body the space it needs to recover. At Resilience Orthopedics, Dr. Pamela Mehta thoroughly reviews your symptoms and recommends treatment to provide lasting relief.
What are Cortisone Shots?
Cortisone shots are steroid injections that contain a synthetic version of cortisol, a hormone your body naturally produces to control inflammation. They deliver concentrated medication directly into the affected area to provide relief.
At our Los Gatos clinic, we use cortisone injections to treat inflammation in joints, including the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, wrist, and ankle. They can also help with inflammation in tendons and soft tissues, as well as in areas where nerves are irritated.
What Conditions Can Cortisone Shots Treat?
Cortisone shots are often used when rest or first-line medications are not enough to relieve inflammation. They can help manage conditions such as:
- Arthritis in the knee, hip, or shoulder
- Tendonitis, including De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and bicep tendonitis
- Shoulder bursitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Rotator cuff tear
- Frozen shoulder
- Shoulder impingement
- Tennis elbow
- Trigger finger
- Plantar fasciitis
Book a Consultation with Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD
The Best Orthopedic Surgeon in San Jose
Dr. Mehta is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who can help you recover from your joint condition. If you:
- Are Suffering From Pain and Mobility Issues
- Need Orthopedic Assessment and Advice
- Want Treatment From a Top Orthopedic Doctor
We Can Help
What are the Benefits of Cortisone Shots?
Cortisone shots can help reduce inflammation and pain, giving you the chance to move more comfortably. Benefits include:
- Reduced pain and swelling
- Improved joint function
- Enhanced daily mobility
- Support for recovery
- Better quality of life
What Happens After I Receive My Cortisone Shot?
Recovery
After your cortisone shot for joint pain, you may feel mild soreness for a day or two. Swelling usually begins to decrease within three to six days.
During the first 24 hours, gently apply ice and take it easy. Most people notice continued improvement over the following one to two weeks.
What are the Side Effects of Cortisone Shots?
Cortisone shots are generally safe, but side effects can occur. Some commonly reported effects include:
- Temporary soreness at the injection site
- Mild swelling or redness
- Skin thinning near the injection area
- Temporary increase in pain before improvement
- High blood sugar in people with diabetes
- Weakening of nearby tendons or cartilage with frequent injections
When Should You Not Get a Cortisone Shot?
You may need to avoid cortisone injections if you have any of the following:
- Active infection near the injection site
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Bleeding disorders
- Allergy to steroids
- Severe joint damage requiring surgical care
- Too many injections in the same area within a short period
What’s the Difference Between a Cortisone Shot and PRP?
Many people wonder which treatment is right for their joint or tendon pain. Cortisone shots work quickly to relieve inflammation and flare-ups, while PRP supports your body’s natural healing over time.
Here’s a comparison to help you understand the differences:
| Feature | Cortisone Shot | PRP |
| Purpose | Reduces irritation for short-term relief | Supports tissue repair and healing |
| Onset | Relief often within days | Improvement over weeks |
| Duration | Usually 3–6 months for joints | Longer-lasting effects |
| Use | For short-term flare-ups or sudden pain | For chronic injuries or degenerative conditions |
| Areas Treated | Joints, tendons, soft tissue | Joints, tendons, soft tissue, including knee osteoarthritis |
| Goal | Reduce pain and swelling | Promote tissue regeneration |
When Should I See a Specialist?
You may want to consult a specialist if:
- Pain or swelling is limiting your daily activities.
- Pain keeps returning despite rest or over-the-counter medications.
- You have a diagnosis such as arthritis or tendonitis.
Ready to Recover?
Take the first step in getting back to your normal self, and book an appointment with Dr. Mehta today.
We’re ready when you are!
FAQs
How Long Does a Cortisone Shot Last?
The duration of relief from a cortisone shot depends on the condition being treated and the severity of inflammation. Most people experience relief for three to six months in joints and muscles.
Does a Cortisone Shot Hurt?
During the injection, you may feel a brief pinch, pressure, or stinging sensation. Smaller or denser areas, such as the foot, may feel more sensitive than larger joints like the knee.
After the injection, some people experience a temporary increase in pain and swelling, called a cortisone flare. This usually appears within 24 to 48 hours and resolves on its own within a day or two.
How Frequently Do I Need Cortisone Shots?
The frequency of cortisone shots depends on the condition being treated. Here’s what you can expect:
– Joint injections: Limited to three to four times per year in the same area to protect surrounding tissue.
– Swelling or arthritis: Injections may be spaced several months apart to give the inflammation time to ease.
What Should You Not Do After a Cortisone Shot?
Avoid high-intensity activity, heavy lifting, and heat for at least 48 hours. Rest the treated area for one to two days after your injection. This allows the medication to work effectively and reduces stress on the joint or tissue.
