Hand tendonitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons of the hand, making it difficult to perform daily tasks such as typing, writing, and grasping objects. If left untreated, hand tendonitis can become a chronic condition that may require more invasive treatments. One standard treatment option for severe hand tendonitis is a cortisone injection. This blog post will discuss cortisone injections, how they work, and whether they are an effective treatment option for severe hand tendonitis.
What is a Cortisone Injection?
Cortisone is a steroid hormone the adrenal gland produces that helps regulate inflammation and the immune system. A cortisone injection is a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider injects cortisone into a specific area of the body to reduce inflammation and pain. The injection is usually given directly into the affected joint or tendon.
Cortisone injections are commonly used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis. They are typically used when other treatments, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, have not provided relief. Cortisone injections can be given as a one-time treatment or a series of injections for weeks or months.
How Do Cortisone Injections Work?
Cortisone injections work by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area. Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury or infection. It can be characterized by redness, swelling, and pain. In some cases, however, the immune system can overreact, leading to chronic inflammation that can cause damage to tissues and organs.
Cortisone injections contain synthetic cortisol, a hormone that helps regulate inflammation. When injected into the affected area, cortisone can reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body, relieving pain, and improving mobility.
Are Cortisone Injections Effective for Severe Hand Tendonitis?
Cortisone injections can be an effective treatment option for severe hand tendonitis. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on the condition’s severity, the inflammation’s location, and other factors.
In general, cortisone injections are most effective for reducing inflammation and relieving pain in the short term. The infusion can alleviate within a few days and lasts several weeks to months. However, the effectiveness of the injection may wear off over time, and the symptoms of hand tendonitis may return.
In addition, cortisone injections may not be effective for everyone. Some people may experience little to no relief from the injection, while others may experience side effects such as pain, swelling, and infection.
Furthermore, cortisone injections may not address the underlying cause of hand tendonitis. In some cases, the condition may be caused by overuse or improper technique in performing certain activities. In such cases, lifestyle changes and physical therapy may be necessary to prevent the disease from recurring.
What are the Risks of Cortisone Injections?
Like any medical procedure, cortisone injections carry some risks. The most common risks associated with cortisone injections include pain, swelling, and infection at the injection site. Other potential risks include nerve damage, tendon weakening, and skin thinning at the injection site.
There is also some concern that cortisone injections may cause joint damage over the long term. Some studies have suggested that repeated cortisone injections may increase the risk of cartilage damage and osteoarthritis. However, the evidence for this needs to be more conclusive, and more research is required to determine the long-term effects of cortisone injections on joint health.
It is important to note that cortisone injections should not be used as a first-line treatment for hand tendonitis. They should only be used when other treatments, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, have not provided relief. Furthermore, cortisone injections should be administered by a qualified healthcare provider with experience performing the procedure.
In addition, some people may be at higher risk for complications from cortisone injections. For example, people with diabetes or compromised immune systems may be more susceptible to infections at the injection site. People with a history of allergic reactions to corticosteroids should also avoid cortisone injections.
Cortisone Injections in Medical Aesthetics
Cortisone injections can also be used as a treatment option in medical aesthetics. In this context, cortisone injections often reduce inflammation and swelling associated with specific cosmetic treatments, such as dermal fillers.
Dermal fillers are a popular cosmetic procedure that involves injecting a substance into the skin to add volume and smooth out wrinkles and fine lines. While dermal fillers can produce great results, they can also cause inflammation and swelling in the treated area. This inflammation can sometimes be severe and cause discomfort and visible swelling.
Corticoid injections can reduce the inflammation and swelling associated with dermal fillers. The cortisone works by decreasing the activity of the immune system in the treated area, reducing inflammation and swelling. It can lead to faster recovery times and improved cosmetic results.
It is important to note that a licensed healthcare provider should only administer cortisone injections in medical aesthetics with experience performing the procedure. Like any medical treatment, cortisone injections have potential risks, such as infection, skin thinning, and discoloration. Your healthcare provider can help you determine whether cortisone injections are a good option for you based on your circumstances and medical history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cortisone injections have shown great potential as a treatment option for hand tendonitis, reducing inflammation and relieving pain and swelling in specific cosmetic treatments. However, their effectiveness can vary depending on the condition’s severity, the inflammation’s location, and other factors.
It is important to note that cortisone injections should not be used as a first-line treatment for hand tendonitis. Other treatments, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, should be tried first. A qualified and experienced healthcare provider should only administer cortisone injections.
If you are considering a cortisone injection, discussing the procedure’s risks and benefits with your healthcare provider is essential. At NWME Aesthetics, our licensed and experienced healthcare providers offer cortisone injections as a safe and effective option for our patients. We prioritize patient safety and satisfaction and work with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan based on their circumstances and medical history. They can help you determine whether a cortisone injection is the right treatment option. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your aesthetic and medical goals.
