Cortisone Injections for Joint Pain
Benefits, Risks and Treatment Options
You may be wondering:
What is a cortisone injection and when is it used?
Are there ways to manage joint pain before considering an injection?
How do I know which treatment option might be right for me?
If you are living with joint pain, stiffness or swelling, you may have heard people talk about cortisone injections. Cortisone injections are one of several treatment options that healthcare professionals may consider for some joint and soft tissue conditions.¹⁻³ They can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms for some people, but they are only one part of a broader approach to managing pain and improving function.¹⁻³
Understanding your options, seeking support early, and taking steps to support joint health may help you stay active and continue doing the things that matter to you.
What Is a Cortisone Injection?
Short answer: A cortisone injection is an anti-inflammatory treatment that may be used to reduce pain, swelling and stiffness in or around a joint, tendon or bursa.¹⁻³
Cortisone injections, also known as corticosteroid injections, are commonly used for conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, tendon irritation and other inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions.¹⁻⁵ They may provide temporary symptom relief, particularly during painful flare-ups.¹⁻³
For some people, an injection can help reduce symptoms sufficiently to participate more comfortably in rehabilitation, exercise or everyday activities. For others, different treatment options may be recommended. The most suitable approach depends on the cause of the symptoms, personal preferences and individual health circumstances.²,³
When Might a Cortisone Injection Be Considered?
Short answer: A cortisone injection may be considered when symptoms are affecting daily life and other treatments have not provided enough relief.²,³
Healthcare professionals may discuss cortisone injections when a person experiences:
Ongoing joint pain
Swelling or inflammation
Stiffness that limits movement
Pain affecting work, sleep or daily activities
Symptoms that have not improved with other treatments²,³
Importantly, requiring or choosing an injection is not a sign that someone has failed to manage their condition. It is simply one treatment option that may be appropriate in certain situations.
What Causes Joint Pain and Inflammation?
Short answer: Joint pain and inflammation can occur for many reasons, including osteoarthritis, injury, overuse, tendon disorders and bursitis.²,⁴,⁵
A painful joint or tendon is often influenced by several factors rather than a single cause. These may include:
Previous injuries
Physically demanding work
Repetitive movements
Sporting activities
Age-related changes
Temporary increases in activity levels
Reduced strength around affected joints²,⁴,⁵
Understanding the underlying cause can help guide treatment decisions and support better long-term outcomes.
How Common Are These Conditions?
Conditions commonly treated with cortisone injections, such as osteoarthritis, bursitis and tendon-related disorders, affect many Australians.⁴,⁵ Osteoarthritis alone is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions and becomes more prevalent with increasing age.⁴
While cortisone injections are commonly used in Australian healthcare, they represent only one of many treatment approaches available.¹⁻³ Treatment decisions are usually based on symptoms, function, goals and response to previous treatments.²,³
How Can You Support Joint Health?
Short answer: Regular movement, strengthening exercises and early support are often important parts of managing joint symptoms.²,⁶,⁷
While no strategy can guarantee that a treatment such as a cortisone injection will never be needed, many people find that looking after their joints helps improve comfort, movement and quality of life.²,⁶,⁷
Keep Moving
Regular physical activity can improve strength, flexibility and joint function. Exercise is widely recommended as a first-line approach for many musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis.²,⁶,⁷
Build Strength
Strong muscles help support and protect joints. A physiotherapist or accredited exercise professional can help develop a program suited to your needs, goals and starting point.⁶,⁷
Pace Activities
Many people experience a cycle of doing too much when symptoms improve, followed by increased discomfort. Gradually building activity levels and allowing appropriate recovery time may help reduce flare-ups.⁶,⁷
Address Problems Early
Pain that persists, worsens or limits everyday activities is worth discussing with a healthcare professional. Early assessment may identify options that support recovery and function.²,⁴,⁵
Consider the Whole Picture
Managing joint symptoms often involves a combination of approaches rather than a single treatment. Options may include exercise, physiotherapy, activity modification, medicines, injections and self-management strategies.²,³,⁶,⁷
Impact on Daily Life
Joint pain and stiffness can affect more than physical comfort. Symptoms may influence:
Mobility and independence
Sleep quality
Participation in work
Caring responsibilities
Social activities
Physical activity levels
Overall quality of life²,⁴,⁵
Many people find that managing symptoms early helps them maintain their usual activities and stay engaged in the things they enjoy.
When Should You Seek Help?
You may wish to seek medical advice if you experience:
Persistent pain
Increasing stiffness
Swelling around a joint
Reduced movement
Symptoms affecting sleep or daily activities
Recurring flare-ups²,⁴,⁵
Prompt medical review is particularly important if a joint becomes very swollen, very hot, or if you feel generally unwell.¹,⁴,⁵
Treatment and Support Options
Management options may include:
Education and self-management support
Physiotherapy
Strengthening and exercise programs
Activity modification
Pain-relief medicines where appropriate
Cortisone injections
Specialist assessment if required²,³,⁶,⁷
The most appropriate treatment plan depends on your individual circumstances, symptoms and goals. A healthcare professional can help you explore the benefits and limitations of different treatment options.²,³
How Westfund May Help Eligible Members
Depending on your level of cover, eligible Westfund members may have access to services* that support musculoskeletal health and wellbeing.
Options may include:
Doctors on Demand for convenient healthcare access
Benefits for physiotherapy, dietetics and nutrition services and selected health management programs on eligible Extras cover
Digital and community-based Health Co-Op programs
The Kieser osteoarthritis program for eligible members in selected circumstances
For information about eligibility and available services, call Westfund on 1300 937 838 or visit the Westfund website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a cortisone injection good or bad?
Neither. A cortisone injection is simply one treatment option that may be suitable for some people in certain circumstances. The benefits and limitations should be discussed with your healthcare professional.¹⁻³
Can joint pain improve without a cortisone injection?
Yes. Many people find that exercise, physiotherapy, activity modification and other treatments help improve symptoms and function.²,⁶,⁷
Does a cortisone injection cure the underlying problem?
Not usually. Cortisone injections are designed to reduce inflammation and symptoms. Additional treatments may still be helpful to address the underlying condition.¹⁻³
When should I discuss treatment options with my doctor?
If symptoms are affecting daily activities, work, sleep, exercise or quality of life, it may be a good time to seek advice.²,⁴,⁵
Can I stay active if I have arthritis or joint pain?
In most cases, yes. Appropriate physical activity is often recommended as part of managing joint conditions and maintaining mobility.²,⁶,⁷
The Bottom Line
Cortisone injections are one of several treatment options available for managing joint and soft tissue pain. For some people they may provide valuable symptom relief, while for others different approaches may be more appropriate.¹⁻³ Understanding your options, staying active where possible, and seeking advice early can help you work with your healthcare team to find an approach that suits your needs and goals.²,⁶,⁷
This information is for education and self-care support only. It is not intended to replace advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Use this information to help you prepare questions and discussions with your GP or other members of your healthcare team.
*Annual limits, waiting periods, eligibility criteria and program-specific conditions may apply. Benefits and programs are subject to your level of cover and may not be available to all members. Refer to your Policy Summary or check your Extras limits via Members Online or the Westfund app for full details.
References
Healthdirect Australia. Steroid (corticosteroid) injection. Sydney: Healthdirect Australia; 2025 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/steroid-corticosteroid-injection
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Guideline for the management of knee and hip osteoarthritis: Recommendations for intra-articular injections. East Melbourne (VIC): RACGP; 2024 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. RACGP - Guideline for the management of knee and hip osteoarthritis
Arthritis Australia. Corticosteroids. Sydney: Arthritis Australia; 2024 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. Corticosteroids. - Arthritis Australia
Healthdirect Australia. Osteoarthritis. Sydney: Healthdirect Australia; 2025 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/osteoarthritis
Healthdirect Australia. Bursitis. Sydney: Healthdirect Australia; 2025 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bursitis
Arthritis Australia. Physical activity and exercise. Sydney: Arthritis Australia; 2025 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. Physical activity and exercise - Arthritis Australia
Osteoarthritis Australia. Physical activity and osteoarthritis. Melbourne: Osteoarthritis Australia; 2025 [cited 2026 Sep 25]. https://myoa.org.au
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