Cortisone shots are like injections that can help relieve inflammation and pain in different body areas. The shots are commonly injected into the joints of the ankles, elbows, hips, knees, and spine. Cortisone shots can also be given to the smaller joints, and feet can benefit from cortisone. The injections can usually contain cortisone shots. The injections can contain medication and local anaesthetics, often, one can receive the shots at the doctor's clinic, and there can be some potential side effects, but the number of shots one can get in one year is limited. So, continue reading the blog to know how often can you get a cortisone shot.
When are cortisone shots required?
Cortisone shots can be effective in treating the inflammation in arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, and they can be a part of treatment for other conditions like:- Pain in the back
- Hip bursitis
- Gout
- Osteoarthritis
- Psoriatic pain in joints
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Tendonitis.
How often can you get a cortisone shot?
The number of cortisone shots that can be effectively taken without risking the changes in the body is limited. In addition, there are concerns about the damage these shots can cause to the cartilage and the joints. In general, you should not get cortisone injections more than every six weeks and not more than three to four times in one year.How to prepare for getting a cortisone shot?
- If you are taking any aspirin or blood thinners, you should stop taking these injections several days before the cortisone shots to reduce the risk of bruising.
- Some dietary supplements can affect the thinning of the blood, while you might need to ask the doctors for medication and accessories that one should avoid after a cortisone shot.
- It is essential to inform the doctor if you have a fever or the body temperature is lower than the body needs.
Some points to remember while getting the shot?
- The nurse can help change you into a gown, and then you will be positioned so the doctor can easily insert the cortisone shot at the site of the pain.
- The area around the pain is cleaned with a cotton swab, and the doctor uses an ultrasound or can type an X-ray called fluoroscopy to watch the position of the needles inside the body as they can be placed in the right spot.
- You might feel the pressure when the needles are inserted into the body, and the doctors can know if you have any discomfort.
- The medication is released into the site of the injections. Typically, cortisone can include corticosteroid medicines to help relieve the pain and inflammation over time and an anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.
What to do after getting the cortisone shot?
After getting a cortisone shot, some people can see redness and warmth in the chest and face. In addition, if you have other medical conditions like diabetes, you can develop increased blood sugar levels.- You can look at these points if you are worried about cortisone injections-
- Protect the injection areas for a day to two as they can be chances of getting infections.
- Avoid heavy lifting, and if you receive a cortisone shot in the know, stay off the feet whenever you can.
- You can use ice at the site of the injections but try to avoid getting a heating pad on that site.
- So do not use a hot tub or whirlpool for two days, but you can take a shower.
- Check for any signs of infection, including pain or swelling that lasts more than 48 hours.
Why are there gaps between cortisone injections?
There is frequently a gap between taking cortisone injections because-Risk of adverse side effects -
Cortisone injections may result in adverse reactions such as weaker tendons or ligaments, skin thinning, and osteoporosis. Doctors typically limit the number of injections a patient can have in a given amount of time to reduce the possibility of these side effects.Temporary Relief -
Cortisone injections can significantly reduce pain and inflammation, but their effects are typically short-lived. A cortisone injection may have long-lasting effects that persist for weeks or even months, but eventually, the symptoms may return. Injections given repeatedly over a short period could not offer any significant advantages.Progress monitoring -
Following a cortisone injection, doctors usually want to monitor their patients to see if additional therapy is required. The doctor can assess the success of the initial infusion and make any modifications necessary to the treatment plan by delaying doses for a few weeks or months.What are the benefits of getting a cortisone shot?
Cortisone shots are commonly used to treat inflammation and discomfort in many body regions, such as joints, tendons, and muscles. So some of the benefits of a cortisone shot are-- Cortisone shots can help reduce inflammation in the affected areas, reducing pain and swelling.
- Pain relief: Depending on the problem being treated, cortisone shots can provide significant pain relief for several weeks or even months.
- Cortisone shots can assist in improving mobility and range of movement in the affected joint or muscle by lowering discomfort and inflammation.
- Non-surgical option: Cortisone shots can assist in eliminating the need for surgery or delays in surgery.
- These shots are quick and convenient as they can be administered within a few minutes.
What could be possible Side effects of cortisone shots?
Some potential side effects of cortisone shots can increase with larger doses and repeated use. Some possible side effects of cortisone shots can be:- Cartilage damage
- Death of nearby tissues
- Joint pains
- Nerve damages
- Temporary facial flushing
- Temporary increase in blood sugar
- The brief flare of pain and inflammation in the joints.
- Temporary increase in blood sugar levels
- Tendons weakening and rupturing
- Thinning of the bones or osteoporosis.
- Thinning of the softer tissues at the site of the injections
- Whitening and lightening of the skin around the area of the injections.
Conclusion-
Cortisone shots can typically be taken to reduce the inflammation in the body. How often can you get a cortisone shot will depend on several factors such as the location of the injection, the condition being treated, and the individual's medical history. Cortisone shots are commonly used to flare the pains and relieve the inflammation for up to 48 hours after the injections. It can be painful as the injection is inserted directly into the site of the pain. Thus, the person getting the injection is intensely sleepy with anesthesia. After the injection, the pain and the inflammation will reduce or continue reducing for at least several months. If, after getting the injection, you are experiencing any side effects or related pain, you should contact your doctor.Frequently Asked Questions
Are cortisone shots safe for long-term use?
Cortisone shots are not a health hazard, but you must take them as prescribed and not overindulge.
How frequently can one get a cortisone shot?
One can get a cortisone shot every six weeks.
Can you get a cortisone shot every three months?
Yes, you can take a cortisone shot every three months.
How many cortisone injections can one take in 12 months?
You can take only three to four shots annually to get a cortisone shot effectively.
Why do you have to wait to get a cortisone shot?
The reason for waiting is that you have to give the body time to get relief from the pain after one shot.
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