How Cortisone Injections Work to Relieve Pain and Inflammation

Persistent pain and inflammation can make even simple activities difficult. For many patients, conservative treatments like rest, medication, and physical therapy may not provide enough relief. Cortisone injections are a proven, minimally invasive option that targets pain at its source. At Greater Austin Pain Center, our specialists use cortisone injections to help patients regain mobility and improve quality of life.

What Are Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are a type of corticosteroid treatment designed to reduce inflammation in specific areas of the body. They are commonly used for conditions that cause swelling and irritation in joints, muscles, and soft tissues. Unlike oral medications that affect the entire body, cortisone injections deliver concentrated relief directly where it is needed.

Conditions Treated with Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are versatile and can help with a variety of painful conditions.

Joint Pain

Arthritis and injuries to the knees, shoulders, or hips can cause inflammation that limits mobility. Cortisone injections reduce swelling and provide lasting relief.

Back and Neck Pain

Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and other spine conditions can create nerve irritation. Cortisone injections reduce inflammation around the nerves, easing discomfort.

Tendon and Muscle Injuries

Inflammation in tendons and muscles can result from repetitive motion injuries or accidents. Cortisone injections help calm these tissues and promote healing.

How Cortisone Injections Work

Cortisone is a synthetic version of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the body to control inflammation. When injected into a painful area, cortisone reduces the activity of the immune system, which is responsible for producing inflammation.

By lowering inflammation, cortisone injections:

• Decrease swelling and irritation
• Reduce pain at the source
• Improve range of motion and flexibility

Relief can last for several weeks to several months, depending on the condition and the patient’s response.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Cortisone injections are straightforward, minimally invasive, and typically performed in an outpatient setting. Here’s a step-by-step look at what patients can expect:

Preparation

Before the injection, your doctor will review your medical history and imaging to identify the best location for treatment. The skin around the injection site is thoroughly cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort.

The Injection

Using a fine needle, your doctor carefully delivers cortisone directly into the joint, tendon, or soft tissue. In some cases, imaging guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy may be used to ensure precision. The injection often includes a small amount of anesthetic to provide immediate short-term relief while the cortisone begins to work.

Aftercare and Recovery

It’s normal to experience mild soreness or a temporary increase in pain at the injection site for 24 to 48 hours. Applying ice and limiting strenuous activity can help. Most patients notice improvement within a few days, although it may take up to a week for the full benefits to appear. Relief may last from several weeks to several months depending on the individual and the condition being treated.

Follow-Up and Long-Term Care

Cortisone injections are often part of a broader pain management plan that may include physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. Your provider will schedule follow-ups to monitor your progress and determine whether additional treatments are needed.

Benefits of Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections offer a wide range of benefits, making them one of the most commonly recommended treatments for pain and inflammation.

Targeted Relief at the Source

Unlike oral medications that travel throughout the body, cortisone injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the injured or irritated area. This focused approach provides more effective and immediate relief.

Quick and Minimally Invasive

The procedure takes only minutes to perform and requires no hospital stay. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities shortly afterward, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.

Supports Physical Therapy and Healing

Pain often limits a patient’s ability to move or participate in rehabilitation exercises. By reducing pain and swelling, cortisone injections make it easier to complete physical therapy, rebuild strength, and restore flexibility.

Long-Lasting Results

For many patients, cortisone injections provide significant relief that lasts weeks or even months. This extended benefit can reduce the need for constant pain medication and improve overall quality of life.

Protection Against Further Injury

When pain is controlled, patients are less likely to move awkwardly or overcompensate for discomfort, which can reduce the risk of developing secondary injuries or chronic pain issues.

Versatility Across Conditions

Cortisone injections can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, from arthritis and tendonitis to spinal inflammation and post-injury swelling, making them a versatile solution for many patients.

Are Cortisone Injections Right for You? 

Not every patient will benefit from cortisone injections. They are most effective for conditions involving inflammation and may not be suitable for advanced arthritis or certain chronic pain conditions. A consultation with a pain management specialist will determine if this treatment is the right fit based on your health history and symptoms.

Relieve Pain and Inflammation with Cortisone Injections 

Cortisone injections are a safe and effective option for reducing pain and inflammation caused by a wide range of conditions. They provide targeted relief, restore function, and support long-term recovery.

If you are struggling with persistent pain and want to explore your treatment options, contact Greater Austin Pain Center today. We proudly treat patients in Austin, Dripping Springs, San Marcos, Kyle, and the Greater Austin area with compassionate, expert care.

‍Call today or schedule your appointment online to start your journey toward pain relief.