Anderson & Cattone Physcial Therapy Downtown Seattle, Washington

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Do Cortisone Shots Work?

Have you ever been recommended cortisone injections to alleviate pain associated with conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, or tendonitis? What exactly are cortisone injections, and how do they work? Cortisone injections are corticosteroids that act as fast-acting anti-inflammatories, helping to manage symptoms and prevent further damage to the joints and surrounding tissues. However, the effectiveness and duration of cortisone injections vary depending on factors such as the individual's pain level, the location and type of pain. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your doctor to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.

The glenohumeral joint is a common place to recieve an injection


💉While cortisone offer several benefits, it's essential to consider the potential adverse effects before deciding if cortisone injections are right for you. These adverse effects may include mood changes, weight gain, increased appetite, impaired wound healing, blurred vision, high blood pressure, and nervousness, etc. Cortisone injections generally provide relief for a few weeks to months, but it is generally advised by doctors not to exceed 3-4 injections per year.


📚A research study conducted on 225 participants with frozen shoulder and examining the effects of the cortisone injections to a group that received a placebo injection. The study found significant improvements in shoulder range of motion and pain levels among those who received the injections. Specifically, participants displayed increased shoulder range of motion for a total of 24 weeks, which was the most notable benefit. While the participants' pain levels did improve significantly for the first 8 weeks with cortisone injections, the pain reduction was not significantly different compared to the group that received the placebo injections. This discrepancy may be attributed to the temporary nature of the injection's pain-reducing effects, as opposed to the longer-lasting improvements in range of motion.