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24th Jan 2022

Benefits and Downsides of Cortisone for Osteoarthritis



Cortisone shots are one of the medicinal therapies available for osteoarthritis. Cortisone shots, also known as corticosteroid injections, can aid with osteoarthritis pain relief by reducing inflammation in the joint afflicted by the most prevalent kind of arthritis, osteoarthritis.

Cortisone shots have only a short-term impact, and if you take them too frequently, you may experience negative effects. Cortisone shots are injections that contain synthetic corticosteroids, which are hormones produced naturally in the adrenal gland and are necessary for a variety of physiological processes.

Benefits of cortisone injections 

Corticosteroids are secreted in response to stress, reducing inflammation. Corticosteroids in cortisone injections are synthetic, yet they are extremely similar to the corticosteroids produced naturally in your body.

Cortisone injections relieve inflammation. These are often used to treat tendinitis, tennis elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome, in addition to osteoarthritis pain treatment.

Side effects of cortisone injections 

1. High blood glucose 

If you suffer from diabetes, your blood glucose can significantly raise after getting a cortisone shot. Those with diabetes should be properly monitored for 24 to 48 hours after they get a cortisone shot. 

2. Hypercortisolism 

People who are exposed to high quantities of cortisol over an extended length of time are more likely to develop hypercortisolism, also known as Cushing's syndrome. Obesity in the upper body, a round face, increased bruising, difficulty healing, weak bones, excessive hair growth, irregular menstrual periods in women, and fertility difficulties in men can all come from this. To treat hypercortisolism, gradually reduce your cortisone intake and alter your dosage to minimize negative effects.

3. Cortisone “flare” reaction 

Cortisone "flare" reaction is a rare complication that happens in nearly 2 percent of patients who get cortisone injections. This reaction is caused by the crystallization of injected corticosteroids in the joint, which leads to severe pain. Flares typically disappear after 12 to 48 hours with icing.

4. Infection 

Infection that develops in the area that’s being treated is a rare occurrence, however, it’s still a serious complication of cortisone shots. With properly sterilized skin where the cortisone will be injected, the chances of developing infection will be significantly reduced. 

5. Damage to soft tissues 

Some people who get cortisone injections, develop softening of cartilage and their tendons start to weaken in the joint that’s being treated. This type of damage can be permanent. It typically happens in people who receive cortisone injections weekly or monthly. 

People should not take cortisone shots more than two to four times each year because of these dangers. It's also a good idea to space your injections out for at least three months. In addition, discuss the dangers of cortisone shots with your doctor if you:

  • Have septic arthritis (joint infection)
  • Have a skin infection where you got a previous shot 
  • Have experienced an allergic reaction to a previous cortisone injection
  • Take blood-thinning medications
  • Are injured — for example, a recent head injury or broken bone
  • Are a competitive athlete

If you're using blood thinners, you may need to stop taking them for a few days before getting your cortisone shot to avoid bleeding or bruising. Blood thinners are also included in several dietary supplements. Before getting a cortisone shot, talk to your doctor about what medications and supplements you should avoid. If you've had a temperature of 100.4 F (38 C) or higher in the past two weeks, tell your doctor.

Obviously, cortisone injections can be beneficial, but they can also be harmful if used excessively. Before you have your first one, it's a good idea to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of these shots.