You booked an injection to get rid of pain, but a few hours later, the area hurts more than before.
This is known as a “cortisone flare.” While it can be discouraging, it is a well-known, temporary reaction that affects a small percentage of patients.
Victa Health wants you to feel supported even after you leave the clinic. Here is a guide to understanding why this happens and practical steps for Managing Cortisone Flare effectively at home.
What is a Cortisone Flare?
A flare occurs when the injected medication crystallizes inside the joint before it fully dissolves. These crystals rub against the soft tissue, causing a brief spike in inflammation.
- Timing: It usually starts 6 to 12 hours after the injection.
- Duration: The pain typically peaks quickly and resolves within 24 to 48 hours.
- The Good News: A flare does not mean the treatment has failed or that something went wrong.
Practical Steps for Relief
If you are experiencing post-injection pain, simple home remedies are usually enough to settle it down. Here is the standard protocol for Managing Cortisone Flare:
- Apply Ice: Wrap an ice pack (or frozen peas) in a towel and apply it to the sore area for 15–20 minutes every few hours. This is the most effective way to calm the “heat” in the joint.
- Rest the Joint: Do not try to “walk it off.” Give the area strict rest for the first day to let the medication settle.
- Simple Analgesia: If medically suitable for you, taking paracetamol or an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory can help manage the discomfort until the flare passes.
Flare vs. Infection: When to Call Us
While flares are normal, infection is a rare but serious complication. You should contact the clinic immediately if you notice:
- Redness and heat spreading away from the injection site.
- A fever or feeling generally unwell.
- Pain that continues getting worse after 48 hours.
The Outcome
Once the flare subsides, the medication begins to work as intended. Most patients find that after this brief bumpy start, their original pain levels drop significantly over the following week.