Cortisone injections are often a go-to solution for joint pain, inflammation, and discomfort related to conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis. These quick and effective treatments provide targeted relief, helping people regain mobility and reduce pain. But one question that frequently arises after the procedure is, “Do I need to rest after a cortisone injection?”
The short answer is yes. While the effects of a cortisone injection can be remarkable, rest plays a crucial role in maximizing its benefits and ensuring proper healing. This blog dives into everything you need to know about resting after a cortisone injection, how long you should rest, and what activities you can resume safely while recovering.
What Are Cortisone Injections and How Do They Work?
Cortisone injections are used to reduce inflammation and manage pain in specific parts of the body where discomfort persists. The active ingredient, cortisone (a type of corticosteroid), works by suppressing the immune response that causes inflammation. This allows swelling to subside and offers relief from associated pain or stiffness.
Conditions Treated with Cortisone
Cortisone injections are highly versatile and are commonly used to treat conditions like:
- Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Tendinitis (e.g., tennis elbow or Achilles tendinitis)
- Bursitis (e.g., shoulder or hip bursitis)
- Trigger point pain
- Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica
Types of Cortisone Injections
There are different types of cortisone injections, including:
- Intra-articular injections (into joints like the knee or hip)
- Soft tissue injections (targeting tendons or bursae)
- Epidural injections (administered into the spine)
- Trigger point injections (targeting muscle knots or pain points)
Each type works to deliver localized relief, ensuring minimal side effects compared to oral corticosteroids.
Why Do You Need to Rest After a Cortisone Injection?
After receiving a cortisone injection, rest is essential for several reasons:
- Allows the Medicine to Work: While cortisone begins reducing inflammation quickly, its full effects may take a few days. Rest helps the medication stay localized and uninterrupted, allowing it to do its job.
- Minimizes Systemic Absorption: Resting the affected area ensures the steroid remains concentrated in the targeted joint or tissue instead of dispersing into other parts of the body.
- Reduces Risk of Cartilage Damage: Cartilage chondrotoxicity (cartilage damage due to cortisone) is a rare side effect but can be exacerbated by overuse. Rest prevents unnecessary strain on treated joints.
- Prevents Steroid Flare: Some patients experience a temporary “flare-up” of pain post-injection, known as a steroid flare. Rest minimizes discomfort and reduces inflammation in the area.
How Long Should You Rest?
General Rest Guidelines
Doctors generally recommend resting the treated area for at least 24-48 hours after the injection. During this time, avoid strenuous activity or placing excess pressure on the joint or tissue.
Rest Recommendations by Injection Site
The amount of rest required varies depending on the location of the injection:
- Knee or Ankle: Rest for 1-2 days. Walking distances should be kept short. Gradually return to low-impact activities like walking after 48 hours.
- Shoulder or Elbow: Rest for at least 48 hours. Avoid lifting or overhead activities for at least a week.
- Hip: Rest for 3-7 days. Support the area by limiting walking, running, or any exercise that can strain the area.
- Spine (e.g., epidural injection): Rest for 24 hours. Gradually return to activities like walking, taking care to avoid high-impact activities for a week.
Factors That Influence Rest Time
The recommended rest duration may also depend on:
- The severity of the condition being treated
- The dose of cortisone administered
- Your fitness level or pre-existing conditions
- Occurrence of side effects like steroid flare
What Can Happen If You Skip Rest?
Skipping rest too soon after a cortisone injection can carry risks, such as:
- Delayed Healing: Not allowing the medication time to work can prolong inflammation and recovery.
- Exacerbated Pain: Overuse of the joint shortly after an injection can lead to increased pain.
- Chondrotoxicity: Placing stress on the treated joint too soon may increase the risk of cartilage weakening or damage.
While cortisone injections are safe when administered properly, taking rest seriously helps minimize potential complications and prolongs the treatment’s effectiveness.
Gentle Activities You Can Do During Recovery
You don’t need to stay completely immobile after a cortisone injection! Gentle, low-impact activities that do not strain the treated joint are generally safe. Here are some options:
- Walking (short distances and at a relaxed pace)
- Stretching (static stretches that do not impact the treated joint)
- Unweighted range-of-motion exercises (only if approved by your healthcare provider)
- Icing the injection site (20 minutes on, followed by 20 minutes off) to reduce swelling
These activities support circulation without overstressing the area, which helps reduce stiffness and improves healing.
When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider
After a cortisone injection, it’s important to stay in close communication with your clinician. You should consult your provider if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Pain: Pain that does not subside or worsens after 48 hours
- Severe Swelling or Redness: These could indicate an infection
- Steroid Flare: If your post-injection pain lasts longer than usual (48-72 hours)
- Unclear Activity Guidelines: When in doubt, ask whether specific activities (e.g., returning to work or the gym) are safe
Your provider will be able to tailor recovery guidance based on your unique needs and circumstances.
FAQs
Rest Today, Enjoy Tomorrow
A cortisone injection can be life-changing, offering significant pain relief and improving your quality of life. However, rest is a vital part of the recovery process. By allowing the medication to do its work, you can maximize its benefits while minimizing risks and complications.
Listen to your body, follow your doctor’s instructions, and ease back into activity at a measured pace. Your joints will thank you!
If you have questions about cortisone injections or need personalized recovery guidance, consult your healthcare provider todaay.
Beth is Cloudmineinc’s senior health editor and a certified personal trainer. She has over 10 years experience as a science journalist and is the author of two books. She deadlifts over 315 lbs.