Cortisone injections are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and manage the symptoms associated with various orthopedic conditions. Dr. Gelber, at LA Orthopedics and Wellness offers cortisone injections to provide immediate relief from joint pain.
What Are Cortisone Injections?
Cortisone injections are a common medical intervention for orthopedic conditions. These injections deliver a synthetic form of cortisol, a naturally occurring hormone in the body, directly into the affected joint or soft tissue. Cortisol is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that reduces swelling, alleviates pain, and promotes healing. Cortisone injections can help manage discomfort caused by arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Conditions That May Necessitate Cortisone Injections:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Lumbar radiculopathy
- Knee osteoarthritis (including meniscal tears)
- Other musculoskeletal conditions
Signs Indicating You May Need Cortisone Injections:
- Persistent joint pain
- Swelling and inflammation
- Limited range of motion
- Tenderness at the injection site
- Recurrent or chronic musculoskeletal discomfort
- Diagnosed inflammatory conditions like arthritis
How Cortisone Injections Work
Cortisone injections function through the action of corticosteroids, which are synthetic versions of the body’s naturally occurring hormone, cortisol. When injected directly into the affected area, such as a joint or soft tissue, corticosteroids interact with cells’ receptors. This interaction modulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation, reducing the production of inflammatory molecules. As a result, immune responses are suppressed, inflammation subsides, and pain diminishes, leading to improved comfort and mobility.
Benefits of Cortisone Injections:
- Rapid pain relief
- Reduced inflammation and swelling
- Improved joint function
- Reduced reliance on oral medications
- Non-surgical alternative for orthopedic conditions
- Targeted treatment with minimal systemic side effects
- Improved quality of life for individuals with orthopedic issues
What Happens During The Treatment
During a cortisone injection session, you’ll be asked to lie down or sit in a comfortable position. The area to be injected will be cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort. Using a thin needle, Dr. Gelber will carefully administer the cortisone medication into the affected joint or tissue. You may feel some pressure or a brief sting, but the discomfort is minimal. The entire procedure is usually quick, taking only a few minutes.
The Recovery Process After Cortisone Injections
After a cortisone injection, you may experience temporary side effects, such as localized pain, swelling, or mild bruising at the injection site for a day or two. You must avoid strenuous activities for a brief period, but most daily activities can be resumed almost immediately. You may notice improvement in your symptoms within a few days, with continued improvements for a week. Follow Dr. Gelber’s post-injection guidelines, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have concerns about your recovery.
Cortisone Injections Aftercare Guidelines:
- Rest the injected area for the first 24-48 hours
- Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting
- Apply ice to the injection site to reduce swelling (if advised)
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended
- Keep the injection site clean and dry
- Follow up with Dr. Gelber as scheduled
- Report any signs of infection or unusual reactions
- Resume normal activities gradually as the pain subsides
- Adhere to your orthopedic treatment plan for optimal results
Only One Component
of Your Holistic Plan
Cortisone injections are just one component of a comprehensive orthopedic treatment plan. While they can provide significant relief from pain and inflammation, they are not a standalone solution. Physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatments may be necessary to address the underlying causes of your condition and promote long-term healing and improved mobility. Dr. Gelber will develop a holistic plan tailored to your specific needs.
Consult Dr. Gelber Today
Dr. Jonathan Gelber is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in integrative and whole-body wellness. He places a strong emphasis on attentive patient communication, actively listens to your concerns, and understands your unique needs. Dr. Gelber’s ultimate aim is to facilitate your return to an active lifestyle. Instead of simply addressing your symptoms, he curates personalized plans to restore optimal joint health and mobility. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gelber to reclaim optimal mobility.