Cortisone Injection — What to Expect

What Is a Cortisone Injection?

A corticosteroid injection places a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into an inflamed joint, tendon sheath, or bursa. Cortisone reduces inflammation, decreases swelling, and relieves pain — often for months at a time. Dr. Chambers uses cortisone injections to treat trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain's tenosynovitis, thumb CMC arthritis, tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, and wrist and elbow joint arthritis.

What Happens During the Injection?

The skin is cleaned with antiseptic. A small needle is placed into the target area — joint, tendon sheath, or bursa. A mixture of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is injected. The procedure takes 2–3 minutes. Most patients feel a brief pressure sensation or mild stinging during the injection.

What to Expect Afterward

The local anesthetic provides immediate but short-lived relief lasting 4–6 hours. This wears off before the cortisone takes effect — so symptoms may briefly return. The cortisone develops over 48–72 hours and typically reaches full effect at 1–2 weeks.

Cortisone Flare

About 10% of patients experience a temporary increase in pain and swelling 12–36 hours after injection — called a cortisone flare. This is a crystalline reaction to the corticosteroid, is self-limiting, and resolves within 24–48 hours. Rest, apply ice for 15–20 minutes every few hours, and take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.

How Long Does Relief Last?

Duration varies by condition and individual. Most patients experience 2–6 months of meaningful relief. Some achieve longer-lasting or permanent relief — particularly for trigger finger and mild carpal tunnel syndrome. If relief was meaningful but shorter than expected, a second injection is often appropriate.

Limitations and Risks

• Frequency limit: Dr. Chambers limits injections to 3 per year per joint to reduce risk of cartilage effects and tendon weakening with repeated injections.
• Blood sugar: Cortisone temporarily raises blood glucose in diabetics — sometimes significantly for 3–5 days. Monitor blood sugar closely and inform your endocrinologist.
• Skin changes: Repeated injections near the skin surface can cause skin thinning or depigmentation at the injection site — more common with superficial tendon injections.
• Infection: Extremely rare (<1 in 10,000) with sterile technique. Call our office if you develop fever, spreading redness, or warmth 3–5 days after injection.

After Your Injection

• Rest the injected area for 24–48 hours — avoid heavy use
• Apply ice 15–20 minutes every few hours if uncomfortable
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
• Most patients return to normal activities the following day