Many people struggling with joint pain, inflammation, or musculoskeletal injuries consider getting cortisone injections and wonder, “Are cortisone shots safe?” or “Should I get a cortisone injection for my back, shoulder, or knee pain?” While cortisone injections can provide temporary relief, they come with potential risks, side effects, and long-term complications that patients should consider before opting for treatment.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we specialize in natural, non-invasive treatments for pain management, inflammation, and joint health—helping patients find lasting relief without the risks of cortisone.
What Are Cortisone Injections?
Cortisone injections contain a corticosteroid (a powerful anti-inflammatory drug) that is injected into joints, muscles, or soft tissues to reduce pain and swelling. They are commonly used to treat:
• Knee pain from arthritis or inflammation
• Shoulder pain from rotator cuff injuries or impingement
• Back pain from herniated discs, sciatica, or spinal stenosis
• Hip bursitis or tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis and foot pain
• Elbow pain from tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow
Cortisone works by suppressing the body’s natural inflammatory response, which can relieve pain temporarily—but it does not fix the underlying problem.
Why You Should Think Twice Before Getting a Cortisone Injection
1. Cortisone Only Provides Temporary Relief
Cortisone injections do not heal injuries or address the root cause of pain. Instead, they mask pain by reducing inflammation, often leading to a false sense of improvement.
• Pain relief usually lasts only a few weeks to months.
• Once the cortisone wears off, symptoms return—sometimes worse than before.
• Repeated injections lose effectiveness over time and may lead to joint damage.
If the pain is caused by poor posture, joint misalignment, or muscle imbalances, cortisone won’t fix these issues—it only covers them up temporarily.
Alternative: Chiropractic care, spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises can address the root cause of pain for long-term relief.
2. Increased Risk of Joint and Cartilage Damage
Cortisone is a catabolic steroid, meaning it breaks down tissue over time. Repeated injections can:
• Weaken cartilage, leading to faster joint degeneration.
• Increase the risk of osteoarthritis by wearing down protective joint tissue.
• Cause soft tissue damage, making tendons more prone to tearing.
One study found that patients who received frequent cortisone injections for knee pain experienced more rapid cartilage loss than those who did not.
Alternative: Chiropractic care, myofascial release, and mobility training can help support joint integrity without damaging cartilage.
3. Potential for Bone Loss and Osteoporosis
Cortisone injections have been linked to bone thinning and osteoporosis, especially when used repeatedly in weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees, and spine.
• Corticosteroids interfere with bone formation, leading to increased fracture risk over time.
• Injections near the spine may weaken vertebrae, increasing the risk of back injuries.
Alternative: Weight-bearing exercises, spinal alignment therapy, and proper nutrition can strengthen bones and support long-term joint health.
4. Cortisone Can Weaken Tendons and Increase the Risk of Rupture
Tendons connect muscles to bones, and cortisone injections can weaken tendon fibers, increasing the risk of tears and ruptures.
• Rotator cuff tears have been linked to frequent cortisone injections in the shoulder.
• Achilles tendon ruptures are more likely after cortisone is injected into the ankle or foot.
• Elbow tendon injuries (like tennis elbow) can become worse over time.
This is why many doctors limit cortisone injections to three or fewer per year to reduce the risk of permanent tendon damage.
Alternative: Manual therapy, deep tissue techniques, and rehabilitative exercises can help heal tendons naturally without weakening them.
5. Increased Risk of Infection and Delayed Healing
While rare, cortisone injections can increase the risk of infections inside joints, especially when performed frequently. Additionally, because cortisone suppresses the immune system, it can slow the body’s ability to heal from injuries.
• People with diabetes may experience blood sugar spikes after injections.
• Those recovering from surgery or an injury may heal more slowly due to the immunosuppressive effects of cortisone.
Alternative: Chiropractic adjustments, lymphatic drainage therapy, and natural anti-inflammatory treatments can help reduce pain without compromising the immune system.
6. Pain Rebound Effect: Symptoms May Return Worse Than Before
Many patients report a “rebound effect” after cortisone injections, where pain returns more intensely once the drug wears off.
This happens because:
• Cortisone interrupts the body’s natural healing process.
• The underlying issue is still there, even though inflammation was temporarily reduced.
• Patients may overuse the injured area since pain is masked, leading to further damage.
Alternative: Chiropractic care, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises work to heal tissues properly, preventing flare-ups and recurring pain.
Safer Alternatives to Cortisone Injections
If you’re looking for long-term pain relief without the risks of cortisone, consider these natural, non-invasive options:
1. Chiropractic Adjustments for Joint Health
Many cases of joint pain are caused by misalignments in the spine or extremities. Chiropractic care can:
• Restore proper movement and function in the joints.
• Reduce nerve irritation that contributes to pain.
• Improve spinal and joint alignment for long-term relief.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy (Graston Technique, Myofascial Release)
Muscle adhesions and scar tissue can cause chronic inflammation. Soft tissue therapy helps by:
• Breaking down knots and adhesions.
• Increasing circulation and reducing pain.
• Improving flexibility and joint function.
3. Postural Correction and Movement Training
Many joint and muscle issues stem from poor posture and movement habits. A chiropractor can help:
• Identify postural imbalances and muscle compensation patterns.
• Provide movement retraining to prevent future injuries.
• Recommend ergonomic adjustments for daily life.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition and Supplements
Chronic inflammation contributes to joint pain and stiffness. A diet rich in:
• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, walnuts)
• Turmeric and ginger (natural anti-inflammatory herbs)
• Collagen and vitamin C (support cartilage health)
Can naturally help reduce inflammation and support joint health.
When to Seek Chiropractic Care Instead of Cortisone
Consider chiropractic care first if you experience:
• Chronic pain in the back, neck, shoulders, or knees.
• Joint stiffness or reduced range of motion.
• Muscle tightness or recurring inflammation.
• Concerns about long-term joint health and avoiding injections.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we focus on natural, long-term pain relief strategies that support joint and muscle health without the risks of cortisone.
Final Thoughts: Is Cortisone Worth the Risk?
While cortisone injections may provide temporary pain relief, they come with significant risks, including joint damage, muscle atrophy, weakened tendons, and long-term health complications. Instead of masking symptoms, chiropractic care offers a safer, long-term solution by addressing the root causes of pain and inflammation.
If you’re experiencing joint or muscle pain, schedule an appointment at Unity Chiropractic Wellness today! Conveniently located in Midtown East near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we’re here to help you heal naturally and move pain-free.