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A corticosteroid shot (or cortisone injection) is a minimally invasive procedure where synthetic steroid medication is injected directly into joints, tendons, or soft tissues to rapidly reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. They are commonly used for knee arthritis, shoulder pain, bursitis, tendinitis, gout, and more.

While highly effective, many doctors limit cortisone or steroid shots because: Overuse can weaken cartilage and soft tissue Too many injections increase risk of joint damage, infection, or systemic side effects Potential for temporary pain flare or “cortisone flare” post-injection Thus, cortisone injections are reserved for the most appropriate cases.

The primary purpose is targeted inflammation control – reducing joint pain, improving mobility, and controlling diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, bursitis, and tendinopathies.

Relief can start within 24-72 hours and typically lasts from a few weeks to several months. Duration varies by condition, joint, and individual response.

Yes, corticosteroid injections are a proven, effective short-term treatment for reducing pain and swelling in moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis. Though not a cure, they improve quality of life and function.

Hyaluronic acid injections (viscosupplementation) Physical therapy NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections Lifestyle modification and exercise These can be used alone or in combination depending on severity and patient needs.

Temporary pain or “cortisone flare” after injection Bruising or infection risk Tendon or cartilage weakening if overused Possible increase in blood sugar for diabetics Rarely: facial flushing, allergic reaction, or local fat loss (lipoatrophy)

They are the same thing. " Corticosteroid" is the medical term; "cortisone shot" is the common term. Both refer to steroid-based injections used for inflammation.

Success rates vary, but up to 75–80% of patients experience significant pain relief for weeks or months, especially when the cause is inflammation.

While short-term, local injections rarely cause weight gain, repeated or high-dose steroid shots (especially into soft tissue or multiple joints) can increase risk of fluid retention and weight gain. Systemic steroid side effects are uncommon with occasional use.

Most doctors limit injections to 3–4 times per year per joint to prevent long-term damage. Frequency depends on the joint, diagnosis, and your overall health.

Corticosteroid injection cost ranges from $100–$300 per shot in the U.S., depending on clinic, location, and insurance coverage.

Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours Do not submerge joint in water (baths, pools, hot tubs) for 24 hours Monitor for infection signs (redness, swelling, fever) Follow your doctor’s post-injection instructions

Consider alternative injections (hyaluronic acid/PRP/biologics) Physical therapy or alternative medications Consult an orthopedic specialist for surgical options if pain persists

Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections and some new-generation regenerative treatments (like stem cell therapy) may provide longer pain relief (sometimes up to 2–3 years), but results vary.

FDA-approved, medical-grade formulations Minimal discomfort with expert placement Rapid, targeted anti-inflammatory response Used for knee and joint pain, arthritis, bursitis, gout, tendonitis Trusted by orthopedic doctors, sports medicine clinics, and pain specialists worldwide