What is a cortisone injection?

Corticosteroids, more commonly referred to as, cortisone, is a steroid produced in the body naturally. Synthetically produced cortisone can also be injected into soft tissues and joints to help decrease inflammation. While cortisone is not a pain reliever, pain may diminish as a result of reduced inflammation. In orthopedics, cortisone injections are commonly used as a treatment for chronic conditions such as bursitis, tendonitis, and arthritis to reduce swelling, pain, and joint stiffness.