What are Cortisone Shots?

Cortisone shots, also known as steroid injections, are a medical procedure used to relieve pain and inflammation in specific areas of the body. They involve injecting a synthetic version of cortisol, a naturally occurring hormone in the body, directly into the affected area. Cortisone acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling, redness, and pain. Think of it as a targeted approach to calming down an overactive inflammatory response.

It's important to understand that cortisone shots are primarily designed to provide symptom relief, not to cure the underlying condition causing the pain. They offer a temporary window of opportunity to manage pain, allowing you to participate more effectively in physical therapy, exercise programs, or other treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of the problem. While cortisone can significantly improve your quality of life, it’s crucial to work with your doctor to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Cortisone injections are a common treatment option in India, and are available in most major hospitals and clinics.

Key Facts:

• Purpose: Pain and inflammation relief, not a cure.
• Mechanism: Reduces inflammation at the injection site.
• Duration of Relief: Weeks to months, varies by individual and condition.
• Delivery: Injection directly into the affected area, sometimes guided by ultrasound.
• Availability: Widely available in India.

Why are Cortisone Shots Performed?

Cortisone shots are often considered when other conservative treatments, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, haven't provided sufficient pain relief. Doctors may recommend them for a variety of conditions, including:

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis affecting joints like the knee, hip, shoulder, or hand.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) that cushion joints, commonly affecting the shoulder, hip, or elbow.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons, such as tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, or Achilles tendonitis.
• Sports Injuries: Sprains, strains, and other injuries resulting from athletic activities.
• Back Pain: Pain stemming from herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or facet joint arthritis.
• Gout: A type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe.
• Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions like lupus, psoriasis, and vasculitis, where the immune system attacks healthy tissues.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.

When Doctors Recommend It:

Doctors typically consider cortisone shots when:

• Pain is interfering with daily activities and quality of life.
• Other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief.
• The source of pain is localized and can be easily targeted with an injection.
• A temporary reduction in inflammation is needed to facilitate physical therapy or other rehabilitation efforts.
• To help differentiate between conditions when diagnosis is unclear.

Preparation for Cortisone Shots

Proper preparation is crucial for a safe and effective cortisone shot. Here's what you need to know:

Essential Preparation Steps:

• Medical History Disclosure: Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, including allergies, diabetes, heart problems, bleeding disorders, and any past infections. This is vital because cortisone can affect these conditions.
• Medication Review: Provide a complete list of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be adjusted before the injection.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially to medications, latex, or iodine.
• Diabetes Management: If you have diabetes, discuss how to manage your blood sugar levels before and after the injection, as cortisone can temporarily increase blood sugar. Your doctor may want to check your blood sugar levels before the injection.
• Infection Screening: Report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness and swelling at the injection site. A cortisone shot should not be given if you have an active infection.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of cortisone shots with your doctor.

India-Specific Tips:

• Fasting (If Applicable): Your doctor will advise if fasting is required depending on other medication or health conditions
• Documents: Carry your Aadhar card, insurance card (if applicable), and any relevant medical records, such as X-rays or MRI reports.
• PCPNDT Act (If Applicable): This act is not relevant to cortisone shots.
• Choose a Reputable Clinic/Hospital: Research and select a reputable clinic or hospital with experienced doctors who have expertise in administering cortisone shots.
• Discuss Costs Upfront: Inquire about the cost of the injection, including consultation fees, the cost of the medication, and any additional charges for ultrasound guidance or other services.

What to Expect:

• You will likely be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure.
• The injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
• A numbing agent (local anesthetic) may be injected to reduce pain during the cortisone injection.
• The doctor may use ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement of the needle.
• You may feel a brief stinging or burning sensation during the injection.
• The entire procedure typically takes only a few minutes.

The Cortisone Shot Procedure

The cortisone shot procedure is relatively straightforward:

1. Preparation: The area to be injected is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, like betadine or alcohol.
2. Numbing: A local anesthetic, such as lidocaine, may be injected to numb the area and minimize discomfort during the cortisone injection. This will provide immediate, but temporary, pain relief.
3. Injection: The doctor carefully inserts a thin needle into the affected area. In some cases, ultrasound guidance is used to ensure accurate placement of the needle, especially when injecting into joints or deep tissues.
4. Cortisone Administration: Once the needle is in the correct position, the cortisone medication is injected.
5. Bandaging: After the injection, the needle is withdrawn, and a small bandage is applied to the injection site.

Duration and Comfort Level:

• The entire procedure usually takes only 5-15 minutes.
• The comfort level varies depending on the individual's pain tolerance and the location of the injection. The initial numbing injection will help.
• You may feel some pressure or stinging during the injection, but it is generally well-tolerated.

What Happens During the Test:

• You will likely be asked to remain in the clinic for a short period after the injection to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.
• You will receive instructions on how to care for the injection site and what to expect in the coming days.
• It's advisable to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24-48 hours after the injection to allow the medication to take effect and minimize the risk of complications.

Understanding Results

Cortisone shots are not diagnostic tests, so there aren't "normal" or "abnormal" ranges in the traditional sense. The results are evaluated based on the degree of pain relief and improvement in function experienced after the injection.

What Results Mean:

• Significant Pain Relief: If you experience a significant reduction in pain and improved function within a few days to a week after the injection, it indicates that the cortisone is working effectively to reduce inflammation. This can help confirm the diagnosis of an inflammatory condition.
• Partial Pain Relief: Some individuals may experience only partial pain relief, which suggests that the inflammation is only partially responsible for their symptoms or that the underlying condition is more complex.
• No Pain Relief: If you don't experience any pain relief after the injection, it may indicate that the inflammation is not the primary cause of your pain or that the cortisone shot was not properly targeted.
• Temporary Pain Relief: Cortisone shots typically provide temporary pain relief, lasting for weeks to months. The duration of relief varies depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the dosage of cortisone used.
• Flare-Up: Some people experience a temporary flare-up of pain and inflammation within the first 24-48 hours after the injection. This is usually due to the irritation caused by the injection itself and typically subsides quickly.

Next Steps:

• Follow-Up Appointment: Your doctor may schedule a follow-up appointment to assess your response to the injection and discuss further treatment options.
• Physical Therapy: If the cortisone shot provides significant pain relief, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, improve joint stability, and prevent future problems.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Depending on the underlying condition, your doctor may recommend lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, exercise, or dietary changes, to manage your symptoms.
• Alternative Treatments: If the cortisone shot does not provide adequate relief or if the pain returns after a period of time, your doctor may explore alternative treatments, such as other medications, injections, or surgery.

Costs in India

The cost of cortisone shots in India can vary depending on several factors:

• Location: Prices tend to be higher in metropolitan cities (Tier-1) compared to smaller towns and cities (Tier-2).
• Type of Facility: Private hospitals and clinics typically charge more than government hospitals.
• Doctor's Expertise: Experienced specialists may charge higher consultation fees.
• Ultrasound Guidance: The use of ultrasound guidance during the injection can increase the cost.
• Medication Type: Different types of cortisone medications have varying prices.

Price Range in ₹:

• Tier-1 Cities (e.g., Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore): ₹2,000 - ₹8,000 per injection.
• Tier-2 Cities (e.g., Pune, Jaipur, Lucknow): ₹1,500 - ₹6,000 per injection.

Government vs. Private:

• Government Hospitals: Cortisone shots may be available at a subsidized cost or even free of charge in some government hospitals. However, there may be longer waiting times and limited availability.
• Private Hospitals and Clinics: Offer quicker access and potentially more personalized care, but at a higher cost.

Insurance Tips:

• Check Your Policy: Review your health insurance policy to determine if cortisone shots are covered.
• Pre-Authorization: Some insurance companies require pre-authorization before covering the cost of the injection.
• Cashless Facility: If your insurance policy has a cashless facility, you may be able to get the injection done at a network hospital without paying upfront.
• Reimbursement: If the hospital is not part of your insurance network, you may need to pay upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement.

How Ayu Helps

Ayu helps you manage your health records in one place.

• Store Results Digitally: Upload and securely store your cortisone shot reports and other medical documents on Ayu.
• Track Over Time, Share via QR: Track your progress over time and easily share your records with doctors or family members via a QR code.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for a cortisone shot to work?

A: It typically takes a few days for the cortisone to start working. You may experience some immediate relief from the local anesthetic that is often injected along with the cortisone. However, the full effect of the cortisone may not be felt for several days to a week.

Q: How long does pain relief from a cortisone shot last?

A: The duration of pain relief varies depending on the individual, the condition being treated, and the dosage of cortisone used. In general, pain relief can last for weeks to months.

Q: Are there any long-term side effects of cortisone shots?

A: Repeated cortisone injections can lead to several potential side effects, including thinning of the skin at the injection site, weakening of tendons, bone mineral loss, increased risk of infection, and elevated blood sugar levels. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before getting a cortisone shot.

Q: How many cortisone shots can I get in a year?

A: The number of cortisone shots you can receive in a year is usually limited due to the potential for side effects. Most doctors recommend limiting injections to no more than 3-4 times per year in the same area.

Q: Can cortisone shots cure my condition?

A: No, cortisone shots do not cure the underlying condition. They only provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation.

Q: Is it safe to exercise after a cortisone shot?

A: It is generally advisable to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24-48 hours after the injection. After that, you can gradually resume your normal activities as tolerated. Follow your doctor's specific recommendations.

Q: What if the cortisone shot doesn't work?

A: If the cortisone shot does not provide adequate relief, your doctor may explore alternative treatments, such as other medications, injections, physical therapy, or surgery.

Q: Are cortisone shots safe for pregnant women?

A: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of cortisone shots with your doctor. Cortisone can cross the placenta and may have potential effects on the developing fetus. Your doctor will help you weigh the risks and benefits to make the best decision for you and your baby.