Arthritis and the role of cortisone injections
1/30/2025 by David Brennan, M.D.
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain, stiffness and reduced mobility, affecting daily life and overall well-being. Let's explore what arthritis is, the range of therapies available and how corticosteroid injections can help manage this condition.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation of the joints, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. There are many types of arthritis, but two of the most common are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis, OA occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage.
Other causes of arthritis include gout, lupus, psoriatic arthritis and infections that affect the joints.
Treatment options for arthritis
The goal of arthritis treatment is to reduce pain, improve joint function and enhance quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of arthritis and may include:
Lifestyle modifications:
- Regular exercise to strengthen muscles around the joints and improve flexibility.
- Weight management to reduce stress on the joints.
- Balanced diets rich in anti-inflammatory foods.
Medications:
- Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for autoimmune types of arthritis.
- Biologic agents for more severe cases of inflammatory arthritis.
Physical and occupational therapy:
- Techniques to improve strength and mobility and reduce strain on the joints.
- Assistive devices to make daily activities easier.
Interventional procedures:
- Joint injections, such as corticosteroid injections, to reduce inflammation.
- In advanced cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.
The Role of corticosteroid injections, aka “cortisone shots”
Corticosteroid injections are a powerful treatment option for arthritis-related joint inflammation. These injections deliver corticosteroids directly into the affected joint, providing rapid relief from pain and swelling. Here are some key points about this treatment:
How they work: Corticosteroids mimic hormones naturally produced by the body to reduce inflammation. When injected, they target the inflamed joint, calming the immune response and alleviating symptoms.
Effectiveness: Many patients experience significant relief within days of the injection, and the effects can last weeks to months, depending on the person and the severity of the condition.
When to consider them:
- When arthritis symptoms are moderate to severe and not adequately controlled by other treatments.
- As a temporary solution to manage flares or before physical therapy.
What joints can be injected?
- Common joints that can be injected in primary care or orthopedics include shoulder, thumb and wrist joints, hips, knees, ankles, and big toes (especially in the case of gout).
- Other joints may require more specialized care.
Limitations: While effective, corticosteroid injections are not a cure and should not be used too frequently. Overusing these injections can lead to potential side effects, such as elevation of blood sugar and blood pressure and, in some cases, premature thinning of joint cartilage.
As a collaborative approach to arthritis management at Mayo Clinic, we take a personalized approach to arthritis care. Our team works with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. If you think corticosteroid injections might be right for you, we're here to guide you through the decision-making process and ensure the best possible outcomes.
Arthritis doesn't have to define your life. With the right combination of therapies and support, you can regain mobility, reduce pain and improve your quality of life.
David Brennan, M.D., is a primary care physician in the Division of Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care in Rochester, Minnesota. He focuses on prevention and treatment of a wide variety of common diseases.