How Long Should I Rest After a Cortisone Injection

Cortisone injections can be a highly effective way to relieve pain and inflammation associated with various conditions, such as arthritis, spinal issues, and injuries. However, like any medical treatment, they require some aftercare for best results. 

Knowing how long to rest after receiving a cortisone injection can significantly impact your recovery and the effectiveness of the treatment. At Pain Management Specialists, serving the Rockville and Frederick, Maryland communities, we prioritize comprehensive patient-centered care to help you manage your pain so that you can do more of what you enjoy.

Cortisone injection overview

Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that can be injected directly into an area of pain or inflammation. It reduces swelling and calms the immune response in the affected area.

Our team of pain management specialists may recommend cortisone injections as part of a broader pain management plan.

The immediate effects of a cortisone injection can vary from person to person, but often results in rapid pain relief. Some patients experience significant pain relief within a few days, while others may need a week or more to feel the full benefits. It’s essential to follow aftercare guidelines to maximize the injection's effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

What kind of pain can cortisone injections treat?

Cortisone injections are versatile treatments used to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with a wide range of conditions. They are commonly used for joint pain caused by: 

• Arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis

Additionally, cortisone injections work well for spine-related pain resulting from conditions such:

• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Sciatica

Cortisone injections can also help manage pain from injuries and inflammatory conditions affecting the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. By targeting the specific area of pain, cortisone injections provide localized relief. For many patients, these injections provide a better ability to  participate in physical therapy and other rehabilitative exercises that are essential for long-term recovery and health maintenance.

Resting after your cortisone injection

After receiving a cortisone injection, you should rest the affected area and limit your activities for at least 24 to 48 hours. This rest period is crucial because it allows the medication time to work without additional stress or strain on the area. During this time, avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or any movements that could aggravate the pain or cause injury.

Our team recommends using this rest period to engage in gentle, low-impact activities such as walking or light stretching, as long as these activities do not cause discomfort. The goal is to maintain mobility and prevent stiffness. Additionally, during the first 24 hours, applying ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off can reduce swelling and soreness. 

After the initial rest period, you can gradually return to your normal activities, but it’s important to listen to your body. If you experience any discomfort or pain while resuming your activities, scale back and allow yourself more time to recover. Our clinical team is always available to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have about your recovery process.

Comprehensive pain management

At Pain Management Specialists, cortisone injections are just one component of our comprehensive approach to pain management. Our team works closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root causes of your pain and enhances your quality of life. 

We believe that optimal pain relief is achieved through a combination of interventions, and support tailored to your unique needs.

Take charge of your recovery

If you’re considering a cortisone injection or are interested in exploring other pain management options, contact us at Pain Management Specialists today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team of specialists can help you find the most effective solutions for managing your pain and enhancing your quality of life.