When pain and inflammation in joints, as well as soft tissues, bring you discomfort, your doctor might suggest cortisone shots to relieve the discomfort. If you qualify for the steroid injection, your healthcare provider might numb the area to numb the area so you do not feel any pain during the treatment. The cortisone shot is directly injected into the inflamed or painful area, and usually, it brings instant relief. However, many people do not have any solid information regarding what follows. So, do you need to rest after a cortisone injection?
When Do You Need a Cortisone Shot?
Cortisone injections are usually recommended to treat inflammation and relieve pain. There are other medical conditions that may require a cortisone shot, such as:
- Knee pain
- Hip Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Joint pain
- Back pain as a result of spinal stenosis or ruptured discs
- Pain in arm or leg
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Bursitis
- Lupus
- Asthma
- Gout
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Tendonitis
- Conditions that affect the immune system.
Do I Need to Rest After a Cortisone Injection?
Yes, you will need to rest for at least 2 days after a cortisone injection. This way, you allow your body to become accustomed to what was injected. Furthermore, depending on where the cortisone shot was administered, you might have to restrict some activities for multiple days for it to take full effect.
You should avoid strenuous activities or any action that will put a strain on the affected area for a day or two. This provides your body with the much-needed time to reduce swelling at the injected region. And your body gets the comfort it deserves as you heal.
By giving your body the necessary rest, you lower the possibility of complications. You can slowly introduce the activities and gradually continue your regular routine after sufficient rest. When the pain is not there anymore, you can even walk and stretch!
Some people even experience a pain flare after the injection — wait for the pain to subside before you return to your irregular activities. In addition, make sure to keep up with the follow-up care!
What Affects Your Rest Duration After a Steroid Injection
There are some factors that will affect how long you should rest after your cortisone shot. These include the following:
- Your condition or specific diagnosis and the injection that is administered.
- Type of steroid used
- The dosage of the steroid given
- Your symptoms before the injections such as irritability and pain levels.
Your healthcare provider will probably instruct you on what to expect after a steroid injection. They will also tell you how long to rest after the appointment.
Final Word
Cortisone injections are helpful when inflammation and pain in an area become too much to bear. Or if you suffer from certain medical conditions. Generally, doctors advise the patient to rest a minimum of two days, but your specific case might require you to rest more. In case of any complications or pain, visit your doctor right away!
Genesis Pain Clinic has a brilliant team of experts who can help you with your pain. Dial (913) 871-9888 to talk to our specialists now. You can also visit us at 6700 W 121st St, Suite 300, Overland Park, KS 66209.