Do cortisone shots carry any health risks, if so what?

Question

I have rotational scoliosis and now after an MRI it was found that I have osteoarthritis in both hips and L5 of my spine which is radiating outwards. I have NEVER heard any good reports about cortisone shots so I thought I would throw the question open to you guys to see how you got on. Thanks.

If cortisone is a no no, what else can they offer that might work and give me back my mobility?

Answer 1

Yes most certainly they do. They and every other cortosteroid can cause cancer, heart attacks, bone density shrinkage, etc. They are only good if you use them short term and in moderation.

I would be very wary of any long term use. Doctors know of the side effects and still use them alot.

Answer 2

I can't tell you exactly, but yes they can be dangerous. Look up online. My grandmother was given cortisone shots and she put a gun to her head.(she didnt kill herself but they made her depressed and suicidal). Come to find out the DR. was giving her to much your only supposed to get so many in a year she was getting 4 times the amount a person can have. The Dr. wouldnt be giving it to you unless he feels the risks out wieght the benifits. All steroids carry a risk. I was getting them weekly and was sick all the time with resperitory , bladder and urinary tract infections. (messed with my immune system). but I had so much pain it was worth it. Go over the risks with your Dr. he should explain it all to you and if you feel unsure you can always decline the treatment. Im sure you will be closely monitored so don't be all paranoid about it all medicines have some sort of side effect . You have to think of the benifits an Dr.'s don't want a lawsuit so I think you will be just fine.

Answer 3

Steroids can cause bloating,weight gain,and thinning of the blood.I used cortisone for awhile,and these were the side
effects listed on the informational pamphlet I was given.It can also cause pimples,cause behavioral difficulties(bad temper).The most worrisome was the blood-clotting issues.I had to have oral surgery several months after I finished taking the steroids and still had the thinning blood side-effects...it is harder for the blood to clot and wounds to heal.

Answer 4

Depends on what the shots are being given for, and for how long. Steroids given for a prolonged period can lead to Cushing's syndrome, depressed immunity, reduced bone calcium, raised blood pressure, cataract, peptic ulcer and other side effects.

Answer 5

They stay in your body a LONG time... but only last for about 6mths max. My doctors are looking into something else because the cortizone shots are not good to have to repeat all the time. Ask your doctor for something else..

Might I ask what you are needing it for? I have tendinitos (sp?) in my left shoulder and knee...

OH and they HURT LIKE HELL!!! In order to give you the shot it has to go in between your bones to your joints... My shoulder had a HUGE bruise and couldn't use it for 2wks. Shots never bother me but OMG I want something besides that cortizone shot!!!!

Answer 6

I don't have health insurance, I'm gonna get fined out the *** for it too. Health insurance doesn't heal anyhow, not a good comparison.

Answer 7

Steroids increase the risk of infections for one thing.

Answer 8

Yes,they do.Skin cancers or complications to whatever sensitivities that runs in your family.

Answer 9

all steroids have potential adverse side effects

Answer 10

yes check out on the web itll scare the hell otu of ya