Have you ever received an injection or ointment for inflammation or pain? If so, there’s a good chance it contained corticosteroids. But what exactly are corticosteroids? And why are they so often used for joint problems, asthma, or skin conditions?
MotiMove also helps with joint pain. Start moving today! Download here.
Contents
- What are corticosteroids?
- What are corticosteroids used for?
- How do corticosteroids work for joint problems?
- What are the side effects?
- Corticosteroids: injection, ointment, or tablet?
- Frequently asked questions
- Conclusion
What are corticosteroids?
Corticosteroids are medicines that resemble a substance your body produces itself: cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that helps your body regulate inflammation, stress, and immunity.
Corticosteroids are artificially made and used for many conditions in which inflammation or an overactive immune response plays a role. Think of:
- Joint pain (for example, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Skin problems (such as eczema or psoriasis)
- Asthma or COPD
- Allergies
What are corticosteroids used for?
Doctors prescribe corticosteroids for:
- Inflamed joints
- Severe allergies
- Skin problems with itchiness or redness
- Lung problems such as asthma or COPD
- Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
For joint pain, they are often used as an injection. This way, the medicine goes directly into the painful joint.
How do corticosteroids work for joint problems?
If you have inflammation in a joint, for example due to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, it causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. Corticosteroids suppress the inflammation, which means:
- The swelling decreases
- The pain reduces
- Moving becomes easier again
An injection often works quickly: you feel a difference within a few days. The effect sometimes lasts for weeks to months.
What are the side effects?
Corticosteroids can cause side effects. These depend on the form (ointment, tablet, or injection) and how long you use them. Possible side effects include:
- Weight gain
- Fluid retention
- Thinning of the skin
- Sleep problems
- Increased blood pressure or blood sugar
- Bruising more easily
With an injection into the joint, side effects are usually minor and temporary.
Note: corticosteroids address symptoms, but not the cause. So keep moving! MotiMove helps you with that.
Corticosteroids: injection, ointment, or tablet?
There are different forms of corticosteroids:
Injection: for joint pain or severe inflammation
Ointment/Cream: for skin complaints such as eczema
Tablet: for lung diseases or autoimmune diseases
Nasal spray: for hay fever or nasal allergies
Inhaler: for asthma or COPD
Your doctor will choose the form that best fits your symptoms.
Frequently asked questions about corticosteroids
Do corticosteroids work quickly?
Yes, especially with an injection you often notice relief within a few days.
Are corticosteroids dangerous?
They are usually safe for short-term use. With long-term use, side effects can occur. Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Can I exercise after an injection?
Yes, but rest for the first 24 hours. After that, gentle movement is actually good.
Use the MotiMove app for safe exercises!
Can you become addicted to corticosteroids?
No, but your body can get used to long-term use. Always taper off in consultation with your doctor.
Can corticosteroids cure conditions?
No, they relieve symptoms, but usually do not cure the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatories that can provide quick relief for joint problems, skin issues, or asthma. Especially for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, an injection in the joint can greatly reduce pain. But they are not a miracle cure and can have side effects.
The best approach? Combine corticosteroids with daily movement.
MotiMove helps you with that, every single day. Download the app for free and move without pain!