Cortisone shots are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation, but they come with a range of potential short-term and long-term side effects. Most effects are mild and temporary, but repeated or high-dose shots can have more serious consequences.[1][2][3]
Common Short-Term Effects
- Temporary flare-up of pain, swelling, and irritation in the area of injection, typically lasting up to two days.[3][4][1]
- Skin lightening or discoloration at the injection site, especially in those with darker skin.[4][3]
- Facial flushing, which generally resolves within a day or two.[3][4]
- Elevated blood sugar, especially a concern for people with diabetes.[5][4][3]
- Bruising or redness around the injection site.[4]
- Short-term insomnia or higher-than-normal appetite in some cases.[3][4]
Less Common or Rare Side Effects
- Infection at the injection site (septic arthritis), which is a medical emergency.[4][3]
- Nerve damage, which may lead to pain, numbness, or weakness.[1][4]
- Allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling.[3]
Long-Term Risks and Complications
- Cartilage damage and accelerated loss within the joint, particularly with repeated shots.[5][1][4][3]
- Tendon weakening or rupture, especially if injected near or into a tendon.[1][5][4]
- Thinning of nearby bone (osteoporosis) and soft tissue, as well as fat atrophy or skin dimpling at the injection site.[5][1][4]
- Rare but severe complications include avascular necrosis (death of nearby bone tissue) and adrenal insufficiency.[4]
- Higher risk or faster progression of osteoarthritis in some cases.[6]
Clinical Practice and Recommendations
- Most medical providers limit cortisone shot frequency to reduce risk of cartilage and bone damage.[1][5][3]
- Individuals on blood thinners or with an active infection are generally advised not to receive cortisone shots.[2][4]
- Patients should monitor for serious symptoms like fever, severe joint pain, or intense swelling after the shot and contact their healthcare provider if these occur.[4]
Cortisone shots provide significant but usually temporary pain relief and are considered safe when used appropriately, but overuse or use in certain individuals can result in serious adverse outcomes.[2][1][3][4]
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- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cortisone-shots/about/pac-20384794
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/cortisone-shots-steroid-injections
- https://www.goodrx.com/classes/corticosteroids/cortisone-shot-side-effects-after-injection
- https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/what-are-cortisone-shots
- https://www.arthritis-health.com/treatment/injections/cortisone-injection-risks-and-side-effects
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38117096/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYwUHex9HSc
- https://www.dignityhealth.org/articles/the-pros-and-cons-of-cortisone-shots
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hydrocortisone-injections/side-effects-of-hydrocortisone-injections/
- https://www.thesportsmedcenter.com/blog/cortisone-injections-the-good-and-bad
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