Can a Cortisone Shot for Hip Arthritis Reduce Pain?

Hip arthritis is a condition that affects the hip joint and typically causes inflammation, agonizing discomfort, and reduced mobility. Finding lasting relief for patients suffering from hip arthritis often becomes their top priority, as the chronic pain that comes with it can disrupt their lives and prevent them from performing basic tasks like walking, bending, or even standing. 

One treatment that has been gaining in popularity in recent years is cortisones shot for hip arthritis. Do they actually work? Are their risks involved? And where can patients find them? 

The Constant Pain of Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis is usually caused by the wear and tear of the protective cartilage in the hip joint, which leads to inflammation and pain. There are several different types of treatment for this chronic condition, including medication (both prescribed and over-the-counter), physical therapy, and, in the most serious cases, surgery. 

Medical providers administer cortisone shots (also known as corticosteroid injections) to patients for a variety of chronic pain conditions, including different forms of arthritis. These injections contain a synthetic version of cortisol, which is a hormone that’s produced naturally in our bodies and helps regulate our immune response. Cortisone works by reducing inflammation in the joint to alleviate the pain that comes with it.

It’s important to note that while cortisone shots can alleviate pain symptoms temporarily, they do not cure arthritis or reverse the wear and tear on the joint. Also, patients respond to treatments differently, so a corticosteroid injection’s effectiveness can vary from one individual to another. 

The Risks of Cortisone Shots for Hip Arthritis

Cortisone shots often provide immediate relief from arthritic pain and improve mobility, which can do wonders to boost a person’s well-being and quality of life. According to research and clinical studies, they tend to be highly effective for most patients.

However, these injections do come with a few possible risks and side effects, including:

• Infection (at the point of injection)

• Allergic reactions

• In rare cases, damage to the surrounding tissues

While these risks are relatively low, it’s important to understand them and discuss them with your physician or healthcare provider before agreeing to the treatment.

Other Treatment Options for Hip Arthritis

While cortisone shots can be effective in managing hip arthritis pain, they are not the only treatment option available. Other alternatives include: 

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the hip joint and improve flexibility. Even with shots or other treatments, physical therapy is an important part of recovery for the majority of patients.

Lifestyle Changes

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active can also help manage symptoms. It can also be very helpful to avoid foods that cause inflammation. 

Psychological Therapy

Chronic pain can lead to emotional and mental distress and cause depression and anxiety for many patients. Behavioral therapy can help patients deal with their pain more effectively.

Surgery

In severe cases, surgery may be needed if no other treatments provide relief. 

Be sure to discuss all your options with a healthcare provider or pain management specialist to determine the treatment plan that best suits your physical needs, pain level, and lifestyle.

Get Cortisone Shots and Other Pain Treatments With HPM

At HPM, we bring the latest advancements in pain management to patients through our clinics across rural America. Our team of highly trained medical specialists understands how to diagnose and treat pain effectively. 
Whether you’re considering a cortisone shot or looking into other treatment options for hip arthritis, our team can guide you through your journey to managing your pain. Visit our site to find an HPM location near you.