How long do cortisone steroid shots last?

The duration of the effects of a cortisone steroid shot can vary widely depending on several factors:

Condition Being Treated: The type and severity of the condition being treated play a significant role in determining how long the effects of the cortisone shot will last. Some conditions (such as bursitis) may respond well to a single injection, providing permanent relief, while others might require periodic injections for longer-term management such as knee arthritis.

Individual Response: Each person’s response to cortisone injections can differ. Some individuals experience prolonged relief from a single injection, while others might require more frequent injections to maintain the effects.

In general, the effects of a cortisone steroid shot can last anywhere from a few weeks to permanent relief. Some individuals may experience relief for a prolonged period, while others might require additional injections for ongoing management of their condition. Here at Easy Orthopedics in Colorado Springs, we frequently treat many conditions with steroid injections.

Do cortisone shots need to be repeated?

The need for repeat cortisone shots can vary based on several factors, including the condition being treated, individual response to the injection, and the duration of symptom relief.

Condition Being Treated: Some conditions may respond well to a single cortisone shot, providing long-lasting relief such as bursitis. Others, especially chronic conditions or those involving ongoing inflammation, may require periodic injections for effective management.

Duration of Relief: The duration of symptom relief from a cortisone shot varies among individuals and conditions. While some people experience prolonged relief that lasts for months, others might find that the effects wear off after a few weeks.

Severity of Condition: More severe or persistent conditions may necessitate repeat injections to maintain symptom control. Conditions like arthritis, or certain inflammatory conditions may require multiple injections over time.

Response to Treatment: Individual responses to cortisone injections can differ. Some people might respond well to a single injection and experience long-term relief, while others might need additional injections to maintain or improve the effects.

What is the difference between a steroid shot and a cortisone shot?

The terms “steroid shot” and “cortisone shot” are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are distinctions between the two:

Steroid Shot: The term “steroid shot” is a broader term that refers to injections containing various types of corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are synthetic drugs that mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Steroid shots can include different types of corticosteroids, not just cortisone.

Cortisone Shot: Cortisone is a specific type of corticosteroid that is commonly used in injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in specific areas of the body. Cortisone injections are a type of steroid shot that delivers cortisone directly into a joint, tendon, bursa, or other tissues to treat conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, or certain inflammatory conditions.

In summary, a “steroid shot” is a more general term encompassing various types of corticosteroids, while a “cortisone shot” specifically refers to injections containing cortisone, which is a particular type of corticosteroid commonly used for its anti-inflammatory properties in localized treatments.

Is there a downside to cortisone shots?

While cortisone shots can provide effective relief for various inflammatory conditions, there are potential downsides and risks associated with their use:

Tissue Weakening: Repeated cortisone injections in the same area can potentially weaken the surrounding tendons, ligaments, or tissues. This can increase the risk of injury or structural damage.

Infection: Although rare, there’s a risk of infection at the injection site. Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or drainage from the injection site.

Skin Changes: Repeated cortisone injections might cause changes in skin color or texture at the injection site, such as thinning or depigmentation.

Temporary Flare-Ups: Some individuals might experience a temporary exacerbation of symptoms after a cortisone shot before experiencing relief. This initial flare-up usually subsides within a few days.

Systemic Effects: While localized injections limit systemic effects, corticosteroids can still have mild systemic effects, such as temporary increases in blood sugar levels, changes in mood or sleep patterns.

Masking Symptoms: Cortisone shots may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation, but they don’t address the underlying cause of the condition. This can mask symptoms without resolving the root issue.

It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of cortisone injections with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific condition, assess the appropriate frequency of injections, and explore alternative treatments if necessary. Cortisone shots should be used judiciously and under the supervision of a healthcare professional to minimize risks and maximize benefits.

I hope we were able to answer some of your questions about how long cortisone steroid injections last. If you would like us to evaluate you for a possible steroid injection and are in the Colorado area, contact us below to make an appointment at Easy Orthopedics.