Instructions after an Injection
The response to cortisone injections is variable and unpredictable. In order to give the medication a chance to reduce
the inflammation, please perform only moderate activity until any discomfort resolves.
What to Expect
For injections in the lower extremity please refrain from excessive walking, kneeling, squatting. For injections into the shoulder or elbow, please refrain from excessive throwing, weight lifting, any repetitive or strenuous activities.
The medicine in the injection has a local anesthetic and will wear off in a few hours. The medicine in the injection also contains cortisone to reduce the inflammation and this will begin working after 1-2 days. In diabetics cortisone may increase blood sugar, so it is advised to monitor blood sugar more closely and adjust it accordingly for a few days following an injection.
The response to viscosupplementation can take up to one month after the injections and the duration of relief is variable. The medication syringes come pre-packaged and are used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. There is a small incidence of injection site pain that is usually mild and responds to rest and ice.
Occasionally a “reaction” to the injected medication can occur. It is more of an irritation rather than a true allergy. It is suggested that you apply ice to the affected area 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Use a thin layer (T-shirt, pillowcase, towel, etc.) to protect the skin from frostbite.
If symptoms of a true allergy develop (hives, difficulty breathing, etc.) please report to the nearest emergency room.