Cortisone Injections: Myths and Facts

Cortisone injections can offer dramatic relief from joint and tendon pain, often restoring function when other treatments fail. Unfortunately, rampant myths cause many to postpone or avoid this effective therapy. At 5 Sports Health, Dr. Nataraj HM (Lead Consultant – Orthopaedics) and Dr. Pooja Jhade (Consultant Physiotherapist & Sports Medicine Specialist) believe in empowering patients with facts—not fear—so you make informed decisions for your joints and health.

What are Cortisone Injections?

Nature: Cortisone is a potent anti-inflammatory medication injected directly into painful, swollen joints or soft tissues under ultrasound guidance.

Applications: Used for bursitis, tendon inflammations, frozen shoulder, mild arthritis, and more—especially when pain limits daily activity or rehab progress. Dr. Nataraj HM, who routinely performs ultrasound-guided procedures, emphasizes their role in breaking stubborn pain cycles.

Rapid Relief: Most patients experience improvement in pain and swelling within days, sometimes lasting months.

Myths vs. Facts

Myth: "Cortisone destroys joints." Fact: When used in appropriate doses and sites—typically 3–4 times per year—ultrasound-guided injections are safe and effective.

Myth: "Injections are a cure." Fact: Cortisone reduces inflammation; ongoing exercises, rehab, and addressing root causes are crucial for full recovery. Dr. Pooja Jhade ensures injections are paired with physiotherapy and strengthening so results last.

Myth: "Cortisone causes weight gain." Fact: Local injections, unlike long-term oral steroids, have minimal systemic impact and do not cause typical steroid side-effects.

What to Expect and When to Choose Injections

Process: After ruling out infection, cortisone is safely injected under ultrasound for maximum accuracy. Mild post-procedure soreness is normal for 24–48 hours.

Best Candidates: Those with significant joint swelling or targeted tendon issues (e.g., tennis elbow, supraspinatus tendinopathy).

Don't fall victim to misinformation. Cortisone injections, when expertly administered and integrated into a holistic care plan, offer rapid, real relief. With the combined expertise of Dr. Nataraj HM and Dr. Pooja Jhade, 5 Sports Health provides world-class, evidence-based care. If you have stubborn joint or tendon pain, consult the experts at Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru. Book your evaluation—get facts, get relief, get moving!