Cortisone injections can be very effective in reducing the inflammation that typically accompanies various orthopaedic conditions, such as arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. At Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group, you can receive cortisone injections as part of a customized treatment regimen for a diagnosed musculoskeletal disorder. Since 1949, our team of Board-certified surgeons and sports medicine doctors has been offering the very best in orthopaedic care to patients in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and other nearby Florida cities.
Cortisone is a type of steroid that is produced naturally by the adrenal gland and is released into the bloodstream when the body is under stress. Synthetic cortisone is a close derivative of the body’s own product, but it is designed to be more potent and effective for a longer period of time. While synthetic cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory, it is not a pain-relieving medication. Nevertheless, cortisone injections can significantly diminish inflammation and thus reduce tenderness when injected directly into the affected area. The effects are usually seen within a few days and can last up to several weeks.
You may be wondering if cortisone injections are painful. Although you may experience some discomfort, any potential pain can be minimized when the shots are administered by a skillful and experienced professional. Topical anesthetics can also be used to numb the skin in the area being treated.
After you receive cortisone injections, your knee doctor or other specialist may instruct you to:
- Apply ice to the injection site for 20 minutes several times a day if you experience pain related to the injection.
- Protect the treated area for a few days; e.g., if you received a shot for pain in your shoulder, avoid lifting.
- Monitor the site for signs of infection, including swelling, redness, and pain.
Contact Tampa Orthopaedic today to learn more about cortisone injections and other treatment options, such as orthopaedic surgery. We see patients from Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties in Florida, and beyond.
