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During the cortisone shot
Your doctor may ask you to remove clothing in order to access your joint. You may be asked to change into a gown. You'll then be positioned in a way that allows your doctor to most easily insert the needle.
The area around the injection site is cleaned. Your doctor may also apply an anesthetic spray to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.
The needle is then inserted into the injection site. If you're receiving a cortisone shot in a joint, the doctor inserts the needle inside the joint. You'll likely feel some pressure when the needle is inserted. Let your doctor know if you're uncomfortable.
The medication is then released into the injection site. What medication you receive is up to your doctor. Typically, cortisone shots include a corticosteroid medication to relieve pain and inflammation over time, and an anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.
After the cortisone shot
After your cortisone shot you can go about your day. You may have some mild pain or stiffness at the injection site. Your doctor may ask that you:
- Protect the injection area for a day or two. For instance, if you received a cortisone shot in your shoulder, avoid heavy lifting. If you received a cortisone shot in your knee, stay off your feet when you can.
- Apply ice to the injection site as needed to relieve pain.
- Watch for signs of infection, including increasing pain, redness and swelling that last more than 48 hours.
- Joint injection/aspiration. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheet/jointinjection.asp?aud=pat. Accessed Sept. 23, 2008.
- Wise C. Arthrocentesis and injections of joints and soft tissues. In: Harris ED, et al. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Elsevier Saunders; 2005. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/105473152-4/0/1257/0.html. Accessed Sept. 23, 2008.
- Roberts WN. Joint aspiration or injection in adults: Technique and indications. http://www.uptodate.com. Accessed Sept. 24, 2008.
- Roberts WN. Intraarticular and soft tissue injection: What agent(s) to inject and how frequently? http://www.uptodate.com. Accessed Sept. 24, 2008.
- Roberts WN, et al. Joint aspiration or injection in adults: Complications. http://www.uptodate.com. Accessed Sept. 24, 2008.
- Anderson CF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 13, 2008.
