There are some side effects that are possible when you get a cortisone shot. I never experienced them, but you should be aware: "The most common side-effect is a ‘steroid flare.’ This is a condition where the injected cortisone crystalizes and can cause a brief period of pain worse than before the shot. This usually lasts a day or so and is best treated by icing the injected area


flare up
v.- encender | exacerbar | empeorar | agravar

If the injected joint becomes very painful, red, or swollen seek medical attention immediately as the joint may be infected. As your doctor has explained, one of the very rare (1 in 15,000) risks of a joint injection is infection. If the joint is infected it is very important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.


However, the most common cause of these symptoms is a reaction to the injected steroid (“steroid flare”) which occurs in 2 to 5% of patients. A “steroid flare” usually begins 6-12 hours after the injection and may last for 2-3 days. Regardless of the cause, it is important to see a physician with these symptoms.