It sounds like the steroid injections are wearing off sooner than they used to — and that's actually a recognized pattern with long-term steroid use. A myRAteam member shared something very similar: "I've been getting cortisone injections in my knees every four months for about five years. They have been wearing off a Show Full Answer
It sounds like the steroid injections are wearing off sooner than they used to — and that's actually a recognized pattern with long-term steroid use. A myRAteam member shared something very similar: "I've been getting cortisone injections in my knees every four months for about five years. They have been wearing off a little sooner each time."
This "wearing-off effect" is common the longer steroid injections are used. It's really worth bringing this up with your doctor, as there are other treatment options that may provide longer-lasting relief, such as:
- DMARDs like methotrexate or sulfasalazine
- Biologic medications like etanercept (Enbrel) or infliximab (Remicade)
- NSAIDs for shorter-term pain relief
- Rehabilitation therapies like stretching, heat/ice therapy, or aerobic exercise
Long-term steroid use also carries risks worth discussing with your doctor, including effects on bone strength and other areas of health. A conversation with your rheumatologist about switching or adding treatments could make a real difference.
September 20
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