Living with joint pain can be a daily challenge. Whether it’s due to arthritis, injury or another underlying condition, finding effective relief is crucial for maintaining your quality of life.
Cortisone injections have become a popular and effective treatment option for many suffering from joint pain. These injections, which deliver a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area, can provide significant and often rapid relief.
But how exactly do cortisone injections work, and what should you expect from the treatment? By understanding the science behind cortisone injections, you can make informed decisions about whether this treatment is right for you.
Understanding cortisone injections
What is cortisone?
Cortisone is a type of corticosteroid, a class of steroid hormones produced naturally by the adrenal gland. These hormones play a vital role in regulating inflammation and immune response in the body. Synthetic cortisone, used in medical treatments, mimics the effects of natural corticosteroids but can be administered directly to areas experiencing inflammation.
How do cortisone injections work?
When it’s injected into a painful joint, cortisone works by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response that contributes to swelling and discomfort. This targeted approach allows for higher concentrations of the medication at the site of pain while minimising systemic side effects. The result is often a significant reduction in pain and improvement in joint function.
The science behind cortisone’s effectiveness
Cortisone injections achieve their effect through several mechanisms:
Anti-inflammatory properties: Cortisone inhibits the production of inflammatory molecules such as prostaglandins and cytokines to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Immune suppression: It reduces the activity of white blood cells that contribute to inflammation. This helps control chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Collagen stabilisation: Cortisone stabilises collagen fibres within joints, which can help maintain structural integrity and reduce further damage.
How long do the results last?
The duration of relief from cortisone injections varies among individuals. Some patients experience relief for several weeks, while others might benefit for several months. Factors influencing this include the severity of the condition being treated, individual response to the medication and compliance with recommended lifestyle changes post-injection.
Treating hip and knee pain with cortisone injections
Hip pain
Hip pain can stem from various sources such as osteoarthritis, bursitis or labral tears. Cortisone injections are particularly useful for:
Osteoarthritis: By reducing inflammation within the hip joint, cortisone can alleviate pain caused by cartilage degeneration.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs cushioning bones) can cause significant discomfort; cortisone helps reduce this inflammation.
Labral tears: While not a cure, cortisone can provide temporary relief from pain associated with tears in the hip labrum.
Knee pain
Knee pain is commonly associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, meniscal tears or patellar tendonitis. Cortisone injections are beneficial for:
Osteoarthritis: Similar to its effect on hip osteoarthritis, cortisone reduces knee joint inflammation and improves mobility.
Meniscal tears: Although surgical intervention might be necessary for severe tears, cortisone can help manage pain temporarily.
Patellar tendonitis: Also known as jumper’s knee, this condition involves inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone; cortisone helps ease this inflammation.
The benefits of cortisone injections
Rapid relief: Many patients experience significant pain relief within days of receiving an injection.
Non-surgical option: For those seeking alternatives to surgery, cortisone offers a less invasive solution.
Improved mobility: Reduced pain often leads to better joint function and increased ability to perform daily activities.
Considerations for cortisone injections
Frequency limitations: Repeated injections over short periods are discouraged due to potential side effects such as cartilage damage or weakening tendons.
Temporary solution: While effective for managing symptoms, cortisone does not address underlying causes of joint degeneration or injury.
Possible side effects: Though rare when administered correctly, side effects may include infection at the injection site or allergic reactions.
Is cortisone the answer to your joint pain?
Cortisone injections offer a powerful tool for managing hip and knee pain by targeting inflammation directly at its source. While they’re not a permanent solution or suitable for everyone, they offer significant benefits for many patients struggling with chronic joint discomfort.
If you’re considering this treatment option, consult with an orthopaedic specialist such as Mr Shah, who will guide you through a diagnosis and all your treatment options.
Cortisone injections are often part of a broader treatment plan that may include physiotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, medications or even surgery to address the underlying causes of your joint pain.
