Hello amazing Desired Health community!
Last week, we began with addressing the pros of choosing a cortisone shot. This time, we’ll look at the reasons why you may want to select another option, especially for long-term care.
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Cons of Cortisone Shots – The Other Things to Consider
Cortisone shots, also known as corticosteroid injections, are a common medical treatment used to reduce pain and inflammation in specific areas of the body, most often joints, tendons, and bursae. They contain synthetic versions of corticosteroids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory medications.
Cons of Cortisone Shots:
- Temporary Relief: Cortisone shots are not a cure for underlying conditions. The pain relief is often temporary, lasting anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual and the condition. The pain can return once the effects wear off.
- Potential for Tissue Damage (with repeated injections): This is a significant concern. Repeated cortisone injections in the same area can:
- Weaken tendons and ligaments: Increasing the risk of rupture, particularly in areas like the Achilles and patellar tendons, and the rotator cuff.
- Damage cartilage: Accelerating the progression of osteoarthritis and leading to cartilage loss in joints.
- Cause osteonecrosis (bone death): Due to disrupted blood supply, though this is rare.
- Cause thinning of the skin and soft tissue: Around the injection site.
- “Cortisone Flare”: Some people experience a temporary increase in pain and inflammation at the injection site for 1-2 days after the shot. This is usually due to the crystallization of the steroid medication and typically resolves on its own.
- Risk of Infection: As with any injection, there’s a small risk of infection at the injection site. This can be serious and requires immediate medical attention.
- Blood Sugar Spike: Cortisone can temporarily elevate blood sugar levels, which is particularly important for individuals with diabetes to monitor.
- Skin Changes: Lightening or dimpling of the skin around the injection site can occur, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Facial Flushing: A temporary red and warm sensation in the face and chest can occur.
- Adrenal Suppression: With repeated injections, there’s a rare risk of the body’s natural production of corticosteroids being suppressed.
- Limitations on Frequency: Due to the risk of tissue damage, doctors typically limit the number of cortisone injections in a single joint or area, often to 3-4 times per year, and sometimes even less for tendons.
- Doesn’t Address the Root Cause: While providing symptomatic relief, cortisone shots don’t fix the underlying problem that caused the pain and inflammation. Therefore, they are often used as part of a broader treatment plan that may include physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to achieve long-term relief.
- Not Always Effective: Not everyone responds to cortisone shots, and some individuals may experience no significant improvement.
Now that you know more, you can take better control of your health 😊
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Wishing you all an incredible summer ahead!
Dr. Desiree & the Desired Health Team