Most people begin to feel relief between 24–72 hours after treatment, but for some it may take up to 7–14 days for the full effect to develop.
| Time After Injection | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 0–24 hours | Injection area may feel sore or tender. Pain relief not expected yet. |
| 24–72 hours | Pain gradually begins to reduce for many patients. |
| 3–7 days | Most people notice significant improvement. |
| 7–14 days | Peak benefit often reached. |
| Up to 6–12 weeks | Pain relief can last several weeks or months depending on condition. |
Why Does Pain Sometimes Increase First?
Some patients experience a brief increase in pain after the injection — known as a post-injection flare.
- Usually lasts 24–48 hours
- Can be managed with rest and simple painkillers (if suitable for you)
- Not dangerous and typically settles on its own
Factors That Influence How Quickly Cortisone Works
Every condition responds differently. Relief may be faster or slower depending on:
✔ The condition being treated (e.g. arthritis vs bursitis vs tendonitis)
✔ The severity of inflammation
✔ Your individual response to steroids
✔ The accuracy of injection placement
At Alton Pain Clinic, all cortisone injections are ultrasound-guided, helping ensure precise medication delivery for faster, more reliable results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my pain worse after the injection?
This may be a post-injection flare, which is temporary and usually settles within 48 hours. Rest, ice and simple pain relief can help.
Do cortisone injections work faster with ultrasound guidance?
Yes — ultrasound guidance improves accuracy, meaning the medication reaches the inflamed area more effectively, often leading to faster relief.
How often can you have a cortisone injection?
Usually every 3 months, with many clinicians recommending no more than 3–4 injections per year in the same area.