Cortisone Injection Specialist

What is a cortisone injection?

A cortisone injection is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve pain or inflammation in a specific area of your body. 

Each injection contains a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication. Once the solution enters your body, it minimizes discomfort, improving your range-of-motion and joint function.

What conditions can a cortisone injection treat?

Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine uses cortisone injections to treat a variety of musculoskeletal problems, including:

• Back pain
• Bursitis
• Gout
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis

You might also benefit from a cortisone injection if you experience a sports or work-related injury like tendonitis.

Am I a good candidate for a cortisone injection?

To determine if you’re a good candidate for a cortisone injection, your Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine provider conducts a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle.

Make sure to let your provider know if you take any prescription medications that have a blood-thinning effect. You might need to stop taking them prior to your cortisone injections to lower the risk of bleeding or swelling.

How does a cortisone injection work?

The Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine team administers cortisone injections on-site during a quick outpatient procedure. Prior to your injection, your provider carefully cleans your skin with an antiseptic solution. They also apply a topical numbing cream, ensuring you feel no pain.

Once the anesthesia sets in, your provider administers the injection. The cortisone medication enters your body and starts relieving inflammation almost immediately.

Is a cortisone injection safe?

Cortisone injections are safe and usually well-tolerated. In the first few days after your appointment, it’s normal to experience some mild bruising and increased sensitivity. 

However, any discomfort should subside within 24-48 hours. If your pain persists, gets worse, or results in a fever, contact Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine right away.

How long does a cortisone injection last?

Cortisone injections typically provide pain relief for one or two months, but they can last longer. That is particularly true if you combine injections with other treatments like physical therapy or light exercise. 

To achieve the best possible results, the Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine team recommends getting three or four cortisone injections per year. Exceeding this limit may increase your risk of infection or other potentially serious complications.

To learn more about the benefits of a cortisone injection, schedule an appointment at Progressive Spine & Sports Medicine. Book a consultation online, or call the office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff today.