What Are Anti-inflammatory Shots?
Anti-inflammatory shots, often referred to as steroid or cortisone shots, contain corticosteroids, which are synthetic versions of the hormone cortisol. These injections are used medically to suppress inflammation and reduce swelling. Delivering the steroid directly to the affected area provides powerful, localized relief, often faster and with fewer systemic side effects than oral medications. A local anesthetic is often included for immediate pain relief, while the steroid's full effect develops over a few days.
Conditions Treated with Anti-inflammatory Shots at Urgent Care
Urgent care clinics can treat various acute inflammatory conditions with steroid injections. These may include joint pain, bursitis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, allergic reactions, and severe sinus infections.
What to Expect During an Urgent Care Visit for an Anti-inflammatory Shot
A visit for a steroid shot at urgent care is typically efficient. It involves an initial evaluation by a provider to review your medical history and symptoms. If suitable, the injection is administered into the affected area. You may be observed briefly, and it's often recommended to rest the area for 24-48 hours. The local anesthetic may provide immediate relief, with the full steroid effect developing over a few days.
Urgent Care Anti-inflammatory Shots vs. Other Options
| Feature | Urgent Care Steroid Shot | Oral NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen) | Primary Care/Specialist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed of Relief | Rapid, targeted relief, with full effect in 1-7 days. | Can take several hours to start working; provides general, not localized, relief. | Appointment wait times vary; once seen, relief is similar to urgent care. |
| Convenience | Walk-in availability, extended hours, and no-wait options. | Available over-the-counter; requires no doctor visit for acute issues. | Requires a scheduled appointment, which may involve a long wait. |
| Risk of Side Effects | Localized side effects (e.g., temporary flare, skin thinning) and a temporary rise in blood sugar. | Gastrointestinal issues, increased risk of heart attack or stroke with long-term use. | Risks are similar to urgent care but may be handled by a specialist. |
| Duration of Effect | Can last for weeks to several months. | Wears off within hours; requires repeated dosing. | Similar duration to urgent care injections. |
Considerations and Risks
While convenient, anti-inflammatory injections carry risks. A provider will assess your medical history, as injections may not be suitable if you have an infection, uncontrolled diabetes, or a recent sprain. Potential risks include cartilage damage from frequent injections in the same joint, a temporary rise in blood sugar, tendon weakening, and a temporary increase in pain at the injection site (post-injection flare).
Alternatives to Anti-inflammatory Injections at Urgent Care
Urgent care centers can also offer or suggest other treatments for inflammation and pain. These can include prescribing oral NSAIDs or other medications, recommending topical pain relievers, or providing referrals for physical therapy. They may also advise on non-pharmacological methods like rest, ice, and elevation.
Conclusion
Urgent care centers offer a convenient option for receiving anti-inflammatory corticosteroid injections for various acute inflammatory conditions. This provides rapid, targeted relief for issues like joint pain and bursitis, with effects potentially lasting for months. A medical evaluation is necessary to ensure safety and suitability, considering factors like medical history. While effective for acute relief, discussing chronic conditions with a primary care provider is essential for long-term management.
What are corticosteroids?
Answer: Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that are synthetic versions of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the body.
What conditions are treated with these shots?
Answer: Conditions commonly treated include joint pain, bursitis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and severe allergic reactions.
How long does it take for a cortisone shot to work?
Answer: You may feel immediate relief from a local anesthetic, but the full anti-inflammatory effect of the steroid can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to fully kick in.
How many cortisone shots can I get in a year?
Answer: For a single joint, providers typically recommend no more than three or four injections per year to avoid potential cartilage damage.
Are there any side effects from these shots?
Answer: Common side effects can include a temporary flare of pain at the injection site, a temporary increase in blood sugar (especially in diabetics), and thinning or lightening of the skin.
Is an anti-inflammatory shot the same as an anabolic steroid?
Answer: No, they are completely different. Medical anti-inflammatory shots (corticosteroids) are used to reduce inflammation, while anabolic steroids are synthetic male hormones used to build muscle.
Is urgent care better than a primary care doctor for an anti-inflammatory shot?
Answer: Urgent care offers more immediate access, especially outside of regular office hours. However, for chronic conditions, a primary care physician or specialist may provide a more comprehensive, long-term treatment plan.
What are some alternatives if a shot isn't an option?
Answer: Alternatives include oral NSAIDs, topical pain relievers, physical therapy, or non-pharmacological therapies like ice or heat.
