How it works
How cortisone steroid injections work
A corticosteroid is a medicine that reduces inflammation. Placed right at the spot that is irritated, it can help calm swelling and pain in an inflamed joint, muscle or tendon.
Injections are most often one part of a larger plan. By helping manage pain and swelling, cortisone injections may give you time to work on other treatments or to decide about surgery with your provider. They are most often combined with another form of care that depends on the cause.
Who may benefit
Who may be a candidate for a cortisone injection
Injections may be considered for inflammation from conditions such as:
- Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- An injury or an overused joint, muscle or tendon
You may be a candidate if inflammation in a joint, muscle or tendon is causing pain and limiting what you can do. Your provider may also suggest an injection when pain keeps you from taking part in other treatment. Before recommending one, the team will look at your history, your exam and the cause of the inflammation.
For tight muscle knots, trigger point injections may be an option.
What to expect
What to expect before, during and after a cortisone injection
Before your injection
Your provider reviews your history and exam findings and explains the plan. Tell the team about your medicines, allergies and health conditions.
During the injection
The injection is an outpatient procedure, done at our Frisco office. The needle is placed in the area of inflammation and the steroid is injected. Most people feel some pressure and only mild discomfort.
After your injection
Unless sedation is used, you can usually leave soon after the injection. If sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home. If the spot is tender, ice may help. Your team will explain aftercare and what to watch for.
Benefits and limitations
How long the effect may last
Pain and swelling may start to ease in about four to seven days, though this varies. Relief may last up to six months or longer in some cases, and it varies with your condition and how your body responds. Your provider will review what to expect. If an injection helps, follow-up injections can be considered.
Risks and side effects
Risks and side effects of cortisone injections
Side effects can include bruising or tenderness where the shot was given, skin flushing, swelling, a temporary increase in pain, and, rarely, infection. Cortisone injections are generally very safe, and the risks are low.
Please talk with your provider about the risks that apply to you.
Common questions
Questions about cortisone injections
Your provider can talk through your own plan at your visit.
What does a cortisone shot do?
A cortisone steroid is an anti-inflammatory medicine. When it is injected into an inflamed joint, muscle or tendon, it aims to reduce swelling and pain. It helps manage the symptoms.
Who may be a candidate for a cortisone injection?
People with inflammation from conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis or tendinitis may be candidates. Your provider may also suggest one if pain is keeping you from taking part in other treatment. The decision is made after looking at your history and exam.
Do cortisone shots hurt?
The injection is an outpatient procedure, done at our Frisco office. Most people feel mostly pressure and mild discomfort. If pain worries you, tell your provider before you start.
What is recovery like, and when can I drive or go back to work?
Unless sedation is used, you are free to leave after the injection. If sedation is used, you will need someone to drive you home. Ice can help with tenderness, and your team will give aftercare instructions and tell you when you can return to your usual activities.
How long does a cortisone shot last?
Pain and swelling may start to ease in about four to seven days, though this varies. Relief may last up to six months or longer in some cases, but it varies by person and condition. Your provider will review what to expect.
What are the side effects of a cortisone injection?
Side effects can include bruising or tenderness where the shot was given, skin flushing, swelling, a temporary increase in pain, and, rarely, infection. Steroids can also raise blood sugar for a short time, so tell your provider if you have diabetes. Please talk with your provider about the risks that apply to you.
Where can I get a cortisone shot in Frisco?
Cortisone injections are performed at our Frisco office. Some patients can have an injection at their first visit; it depends on your history, your exam and the cause of the inflammation. Having your medical records sent to our office before your visit helps your provider decide on treatment sooner. To book a visit, call 214-618-9600 or request an appointment.
Related care
Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. This page shares general information. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with a qualified clinician.