A cortisone shot is a common treatment in orthopedic surgery. A patient with osteoarthritis of the knee, for example, might get one to decrease pain and swelling. Does it help for inflammation of a tendon, though? In this Ask Dr. Geier video, I discuss the use of a cortisone shot for quadriceps tendonitis.

Terrance asks:
I have quadriceps tendinitis. Would a cortisone shot be a good idea to treat it?

Quadriceps tendonitis refers to inflammation of the quadriceps tendon as it inserts into the top of the patella (kneecap). People who play jumping sports like basketball and other active people can face quadriceps tendonitis.

You can usually overcome this pain without surgery. Ice, physical therapy and short-term activity modification can usually get you back to sports and exercise quickly.

Is a cortisone shot a good idea for a patient with quadriceps tendonitis?

Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory steroid. It can decrease inflammation when injected into a joint. In this video, I discuss why a cortisone shot could actually be harmful when injected into or around a tendon.

Also read:
Cortisone shots: Use, risks and benefits for bone and joint injuries
Heat or ice: Opinions of sports medicine experts

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