Cortisone Injection (cont.)
Are there special advantages in using cortisone injections for
joint inflammation (arthritis)?
Cortisone injections into a joint can be beneficial in rapidly reducing joint pain while
restoring function to a body part immobilized by inflammation, such as
an arthritic knee or elbow. This might be particularly important in certain
circumstances, such as the gainful employment of a family bread-winner or someone who lives alone.
Despite potential and infrequently reported adverse reactions as
described above, it is generally felt that low, intermittent doses of
corticosteroids pose little risk of significant side effects.
Cortisone injections into a joint also can decrease the inflammation in diseased joints
throughout the body when the corticosteroids are absorbed from the joint into
the circulation.
Are there special side effects that can occur with cortisone joint
injections?
Cortisone injections into a joint may have side effects in addition to those described
above. Unique side effects of joint injections involve injury to the joint
tissues, particularly with repeated injections. These injuries include thinning
of the joint cartilage, weakening of
the ligaments of the joint, increased inflammation in the joint
(arthritis) due to a reaction to a corticosteroid that has
crystallized, and introduction of infection into the joint.
How are cortisone injections of soft tissues given?
The medical professional administering the injection draws up the corticosteroid into a
syringe. A local anesthetic (such as lidocaine)
may simultaneously be drawn into the syringe. Next, the area to be
injected is selected. Typically, the skin over the area to be injected
is sterilized with a liquid solution, either alcohol or Betadine.
Sometimes, the area is topically anesthetized by rapid cooling using
a spray such as ethyl chloride. The needle of the syringe then is
inserted into the tissue to be injected and the solution is
ejected from the syringe into the area of inflammation. The needle
then is withdrawn, and a sterile bandage is applied to the injection
site.
Next: How are cortisone injections of a joint given? »
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