Although not technically a pain-relieving medication, injectable corticosteroids, commonly called ‘Cortisone”, have been used since the 1950’s to reduce pain following a muscle or tendon injury. Cortisone is naturally produced in the body by the adrenal gland and is released when the body is under stress. Injectable cortisone is synthetically produced and is similar to the body’s own product. By reducing the body’s reaction to the inflammation associated with the injury, the pain is reduced.
The medicine is injected directly into the inflamed area, such as the wrist or elbow, with a high concentration of cortisone administered with minimal side effects. Discomfort usually improves within a few days and can last for several weeks or permanently. However, cortisone injections must be coupled with appropriate rest and rehabilitation to produce the best results. Cortisone injections are contraindicated for athletes immediately before an event, as they may increase the risk of infection or contribute to additional injury.
Repeated injections can have deleterious side effects, with a softening of the cartilage and weakening of the tendons at the injection site, however this usually occurs only in patients who receive shots on a weekly or monthly basis over a period of months or even years. Diabetic patients must have their blood sugar monitored closely for 24 to 48 hours after an injection, since the absorption of cortisone into the blood stream can cause a significant elevation in blood sugar.
Most individuals tolerate the procedure well, and find significant relief from the pain of a muscle or ligament injury. Always seek a Board Certified orthopedic doctor such as Dr. Rehman for any type of hand or arm injury. And don’t wait to seek treatment! A hand or arm injury that is causing pain should be evaluated early on, when the chance for minimally invasive treatment leading to a full recovery is at its highest.
