Cortisone, is it right for you?

"Getting older is not for sissies", I've heard it said. 

It is so true.

As we age, our bodies break down. It is not just getting older, it's what we've done in our lives, being an athlete, accidents, congenital abnormalities, overuse, acute injuries, and so much more. We just wear out...

Luckily, there are many modalities to mitigate the discomfort. Exercise, physical therapy and rest are generally a first line treatment, but once it gets to the point of effecting our daily lives and sleep, we might need a bit more help.

I have had a chronic shoulder problem for many years, including pain and limited range of motion. I've had surgery, and it gave some relief, but the pain continues to come back. Turns out I have severe arthritis and bone spurs. The doctors said there was little they could do until I had a shoulder replacement.. I'm not quite ready for that step. 

I recently got a Cortisone shot; hopefully, it will help. 

I have had Cortisone shots in places on my body in the past, with some success, but there is * something that I was not told until recently. Read on..

1. A cortisone shot, also known as a corticosteroid injection, is a common treatment used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in specific areas of the body. 

2. Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication used to calm swelling and irritation in joints, tendons, bursae, or around nerves.

3. Cortisone often used when pain interferes with daily life, especially in cases where oral medications or physical therapy haven’t provided enough relief.

4. Cortisone is used to treat Specific Conditions, such as:

a. Arthritis (e.g., knee, hip, shoulder)

b. Bursitis or tendinitis

c. Carpal tunnel syndrome

d. Plantar fasciitis

e. Back or neck pain from disc or nerve problems

f. Frozen shoulder

5. After a thorough evaluation, usually coupled with imaging (X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound), the doctor may opt for a cortisone shot to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. 

6. The shot is injected into the inflamed area, possibly with guidance from ultrasound or fluoroscopy.

7. The procedure only takes a few minutes.

* I find that this is not emphasized enough:

8. Affected area should be rested for 72 hours.

This is important, or else your movements can interfere with the settling of the cortisone in the area. It coats the affected location and needs to have time to set. 

 Very active people do not like to "take it easy", but if you don't, the shot is wasted.

I am not advocating for you to go and get a shot if you are in pain, but it can be helpful in many cases. It treats the symptoms, not the underlying cause of the inflammation.

It's best to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine if it's the right option for your condition and overall health.

As with many medications, there are side effects; therefore, you should research before undergoing any procedure. 

This is for your information, not an endorsement.r information, not an endorsement.

#cortisone #cortisoneshot #painintheshoulder #jointpainrelief #painrelief #antiinflammatory

Cortisone shot