Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

At Liv Hospital, we know that getting a cortisone injection is a big decision.can a cortisone shot cause sleeplessnessWhat Drugs Affect Your Blood? The 4 Worst Blood Pressure drugs Medications Explained It’s because of the possible side effects, like sleeplessness. These shots are used to help with pain and swelling in joints, muscles, or tissues. They help with many inflammatory conditions.

But some people say they can’t sleep well after getting a cortisone shot. We’ll look into how steroid shots might affect sleep. We want to give you clear medical advice on this.

We want to help answer your questions about cortisone shots and sleep. By looking at what doctors know, we aim to give you a full picture of this topic.

Key Takeaways

• Cortisone shots are used to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Steroid injections can have various side effects, including impacts on sleep.
• Understanding the relationship between cortisone shots and insomnia is key for patients.
• Medical expertise is important in addressing concerns about steroid injections.
• Patients should talk to their healthcare providers about their worries.

Understanding Cortisone Shots: What They Are and How They Work

Cortisone shots are a common choice for pain and inflammation. Cortisone shots, or steroid injections, treat many inflammatory conditions. They help reduce inflammation, easing pain from arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis.

The Composition of Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections have a corticosteroid like triamcinolone or methylprednisolone. These are synthetic versions of cortisol, a hormone from the adrenal gland. Cortisol helps our body handle stress, including inflammation. By injecting these steroids, we can lessen inflammation and pain.

Common Medical Uses for Steroid Injections

Steroid injections are used for many conditions, including:

• Arthritis: Reducing joint inflammation and pain.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion joints.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation or irritation of tendons.

For more information on cortisone shots, check out WebMD’s article on cortisone shots. It offers a detailed look at the treatment.

Can a Cortisone Shot Cause Sleeplessness? The Science Explained

Cortisone shots help with joint and tissue inflammation. But they can mess with our sleep patterns. This happens because of how they affect our body’s natural cortisol levels.

How Steroids Mimic and Affect Natural Cortisol Levels

Cortisone shots have corticosteroids, which are like cortisol, a hormone our adrenal glands make. Cortisol helps control our body’s functions, including sleep. When corticosteroids are in our body, they can upset the balance.

Corticosteroids can mess with our body’s natural cortisol production. This can change how we sleep. It might make it hard to fall or stay asleep, known as insomnia.

The Biological Mechanism Behind Sleep Disruption

The way cortisone shots affect sleep is complex. It involves how corticosteroids interact with our hormones. Here’s a quick summary:

Biological Process	Effect of Cortisone Shots	Impact on Sleep
Cortisol Production	Mimics natural cortisol	Disrupts natural sleep-wake cycle
Hormonal Balance	Alters cortisol levels	Leads to insomnia
Sleep Regulation	Affects sleep patterns	Causes difficulty falling or staying asleep

Knowing how cortisone shots work can help us prepare for side effects. It’s also good to talk to our doctors about how to lessen these effects.

7 Key Facts About Cortisone Shots and Insomnia

It’s important to know how cortisone shots can affect sleep. These injections are used to treat inflammation, but can also mess with sleep. Many patients worry about this side effect.

Fact 1: Frequency of Sleep Disturbances After Injections

Many people experience sleep problems after getting cortisone shots. A study on PMC found that a lot of patients have trouble sleeping. The extent of sleep issues varies by person and condition.

Fact 2: Typical Duration of Insomnia (1-3 Days)

Insomnia from cortisone shots usually lasts 1 to 3 days. Most people’s sleep gets back to normal in a few days. But some might take longer, so it’s key to watch closely.

Fact 3: Older Adults May Experience More Severe Effects

Older adults might find cortisone shots harder on their sleep. As people age, their bodies change, making them more sensitive to steroids. Doctors should think about this when giving shots to seniors.

Fact 4: Impact on Different Sleep Phases

Cortisone shots can mess with different sleep stages. They can affect both NREM and REM sleep. Each person reacts differently, leading to various sleep issues. Knowing this can help manage side effects.

Additional Key Facts:

• The severity of insomnia can vary widely among individuals receiving cortisone shots.
• Pre-existing sleep conditions may be exacerbated by steroid injections.
• Proper sleep hygiene practices can help mitigate the sleep-disrupting effects of cortisone shots.

Recognizing Symptoms of Cortisone-Induced Insomnia

After getting a cortisone shot, some people might find it hard to sleep. It’s important to know these signs to handle them well.

Difficulty Falling Asleep vs. Staying Asleep

Cortisone shots can make it hard to fall or stay asleep. Difficulty falling asleep often comes from being too alert. Staying asleep can be tough because of changes in cortisol levels.

It’s key to know the difference. Some people struggle more with falling asleep than staying asleep.

Feelings of Restlessness and Heightened Energy

Cortisone shots can also make you feel restless and full of energy. These feelings can make it even harder to sleep well. The extra energy can keep you awake at night.

Symptom	Description	Potential Impact
Difficulty Falling Asleep	Heightened alertness due to steroid effects	Prolonged sleep latency
Difficulty Staying Asleep	Fluctuations in cortisol levels	Fragmented sleep
Feelings of Restlessness	Increased anxiety or discomfort	Reduced ability to relax
Heightened Energy	Stimulatory effects of cortisone	Increased difficulty in winding down

Spotting these signs is the first step to fighting cortisone-induced insomnia. Knowing how cortisone shots affect sleep helps people tackle their sleep problems better.

How Long Does Cortisone Injection Sleeplessness Last?

Many patients ask how long sleep problems from cortisone shots will last. The time it takes for sleep to get back to normal varies. But there are some general guidelines to help understand what to expect.

Cortisone shots treat many health issues and can cause sleep problems. These sleep issues are usually temporary. Knowing when sleep will get back to normal is key to feeling better.

Typical Timeline for Sleep Pattern Normalization

Most people experience sleep problems for only 1 to 3 days after a cortisone shot. Doctors say the body’s natural cortisol cycle usually gets back on track in a few days. This helps sleep patterns return to normal.

“Cortisone’s impact on sleep is usually short-lived,” a study on steroid-induced insomnia found. “Most patients see their sleep improve within a week after the shot.”

Factors That May Prolong Sleep Disturbances

Even though sleep problems usually don’t last long, some things can make them last longer. These include:

• Age: Older adults might feel the effects longer because their bodies clear the steroid more slowly
• Dosage: Getting a higher dose of cortisone can make sleep problems worse and last longer.
• Pre-existing sleep conditions: If you already have sleep issues, cortisone shots might make them worse. This could make sleep problems last longer.

Talking to your doctor about your specific situation can help you understand what to expect after a cortisone shot.

Who Is Most Susceptible to Experiencing Insomnia After Steroid Shots?

Insomnia after cortisone shots can happen to anyone. But some people are more likely to have trouble sleeping. This is because of their age, health, or other conditions.

Risk Factors in Different Age Groups

Age affects how our bodies react to cortisone shots. Older adults are more likely to have sleep problems after steroid shots. This is because their bodies naturally slow down, making them more sensitive to cortisone’s effects.

Younger people can also have trouble sleeping. But they are less likely to than older adults. Health issues or stress can increase their risk, though.

Pre-existing Conditions That May Worsen Sleep Effects

Health problems before getting cortisone shots can make sleep worse. People with chronic pain, anxiety, or depression are more likely to have insomnia. These conditions can make cortisone’s effects on sleep worse.

Those with sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome might see their condition get worse. This can lead to more insomnia. Doctors should think about these conditions when deciding if cortisone shots are right for their patients.

Knowing the risks can help people prepare for the side effects of cortisone shots. They can work with their doctors to manage sleep problems that might come up.

Other Common Side Effects of Cortisone Injections

Cortisone shots can lead to various side effects, aside from insomnia. They are effective in reducing inflammation and pain. Yet, they can affect the body in different ways.

Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Their Impact

Cortisone shots can significantly change blood sugar levels. This is a big concern for people with diabetes. They might need to adjust their medication or insulin.

Condition	Impact on Blood Sugar	Recommended Action
Diabetes	Increase in blood sugar levels	Monitor blood sugar closely, adjust medication as needed
Pre-diabetes	Potential increase in blood sugar	Monitor blood sugar levels
No pre-existing condition	Temporary fluctuation	No specific action required, but monitor for symptoms

Fatigue and Paradoxical Energy Levels

Some people might feel tired after a cortisone shot. Others might get a temporary energy boost. These effects are usually short-lived but can differ in intensity.

Factors influencing fatigue:

• Dosage of cortisone
• An individual’s overall health
• Presence of underlying medical conditions

Local Reactions at the Injection Site

Local reactions at the injection site are common. They can include pain, swelling, or redness. These reactions are usually mild and go away on their own.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns or side effects before getting a cortisone injection. Knowing the possible effects helps patients prepare and make informed decisions about their treatment.

Are Cortisone Injections Painful? The Injection Experience

Cortisone shots can help with inflamed joints and soft tissues. But the injection process can worry some people. It’s normal to worry about pain, and we want to help you feel ready for it.

Why Steroid Shots Hurt

Cortisone injections put a steroid medication directly into the affected area. This can sometimes cause discomfort. The pain comes from the needle, the medication, and the condition being treated.

The needle is small but can cause a stinging sensation. The corticosteroid can also irritate tissues, leading to discomfort.

Managing Pain During and After the Procedure

There are ways to manage pain during and after cortisone injections. Topical anesthetics or cold packs can numb the skin before the injection. Some doctors mix lidocaine with the corticosteroid to reduce pain.

After the procedure, ice can help with swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice to avoid side effects.

Even though cortisone injections can hurt, the benefits are often worth it. Knowing what to expect and how to manage pain can help you decide on treatment.

Managing Sleep Problems After a Cortisone Shot

Dealing with sleep issues after a cortisone shot needs a mix of medical help and lifestyle changes. Cortisone shots help with pain and swelling, but can mess with sleep.

Medical Interventions for Steroid-Induced Insomnia

Doctors might suggest medical steps to tackle insomnia, from cortisone shots. These steps include:

• Changing the cortisone shot’s dosage or timing
• Prescribing sleep aids for a short time
• Recommending relaxation methods or cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)

A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that CBT-I helps improve sleep in insomnia patients.

“Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia is a non-pharmacological approach that addresses the underlying factors contributing to insomnia, providing a sustainable solution for patients.”

– Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine

Natural Remedies and Sleep Hygiene Practices

Along with medical help, natural remedies and sleep habits can also help with sleep issues after a cortisone shot:

Remedy	Description
Melatonin Supplements	Regulate sleep-wake cycles
Relaxation Techniques	Reduce stress and promote relaxation
Sleep Environment Adjustments	Improve sleep quality by ensuring a dark, quiet, and cool environment

Using these methods can greatly improve sleep. As shown in the table, mixing natural remedies with good sleep habits works well.

Knowing your options and talking to a doctor can help manage sleep issues after a cortisone shot. This way, you can feel better overall.

When to Consult Your Doctor About Cortisone Shot Side Effects

Cortisone shots help with many health issues. But knowing when to see a doctor is just as important. Even though they are usually safe, they can cause side effects that need a doctor’s check-up.

Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention

Some symptoms after a cortisone shot mean you should see a doctor right away. These include:

• Severe pain at the injection site or elsewhere in the body
• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus at the injection site
• Allergic reactions, including hives, itching, or difficulty breathing
• Increased blood sugar levels in people with diabetes
• Mood changes, like severe depression or anxiety

Questions to Ask Before Getting a Cortisone Injection

Talk openly with your doctor before getting a cortisone shot. Ask these questions:

1. What side effects might I experience, and how can I handle them?
2. How will this shot affect my health conditions, like diabetes or high blood pressure?
3. Are there other treatments that might be better for my situation?
4. How long will the relief from the shot last?
5. How many shots can I safely get, and how often?

Asking these questions helps you understand your treatment better. It prepares you for any side effects.

“The key to successful treatment is not just the procedure itself, but also the patient’s understanding and preparation for what follows.”

Alternatives to Cortisone Shots for Pain Management

Looking into alternatives to cortisone shots can open up new ways to manage pain. Cortisone shots work well for reducing inflammation and pain. But not everyone can use them, and some might not want to.

Non-Steroidal Treatment Options

There are many non-steroidal treatments for pain and inflammation. Here are a few:

• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: These are mainly for knee osteoarthritis. They help make the joint fluid more natural.
• Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This uses the patient’s own blood to help heal. It’s a new and innovative way to treat injuries.
• Physical Therapy: A custom exercise plan can make joints move better and muscles stronger.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These are pills that can lessen pain and swelling.

Each treatment has its own good points and things to think about. For example, hyaluronic acid shots are usually safe but might need to be done more than once. PRP therapy uses the body’s own healing powers.

Lifestyle Modifications for Joint Pain Relief

Changing your lifestyle can also help with joint pain. Here are some ways:

1. Weight Management: Keeping a healthy weight helps take pressure off joints, like the knees and hips.
2. Exercise Regularly: Doing low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or yoga can make joints more flexible and less stiff.
3. Dietary Changes: Eating foods that fight inflammation, like omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and veggies, can help reduce swelling.

Treatment Option	Description	Benefits
Hyaluronic Acid Injections	Restores joint fluid viscosity	Improves joint lubrication, reduces pain
PRP Therapy	Stimulates healing with platelet-rich plasma	Promotes natural healing, potentially longer-lasting relief
Physical Therapy	Personalized exercise program	Improves mobility, strengthens muscles

Exploring these options and making smart choices can help create a pain management plan that fits you.

Conclusion: Balancing Relief and Side Effects of Cortisone Injections

Cortisone shots are a common treatment for pain and inflammation. They bring relief to many. But they can also cause side effects like insomnia. It’s important to know how they might affect your sleep.

Recognizing signs of insomnia from cortisone shots helps patients make better choices. It’s key to talk to a doctor about any concerns. This way, you can enjoy the benefits while avoiding the downsides.

Choosing cortisone shots should be a well-informed decision. Knowing both the good and bad effects helps patients make the best choice. This approach ensures they get the most out of their treatment.

FAQ

Reference:

Ciriaco, M. (2013). Corticosteroid-related central nervous system side effects. 3853679.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3853679/