Cortisone shots deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the source of your pain — whether that’s a joint, muscle, or other tissue. They’re not usually the first thing a doctor will try, but they can be very effective when other treatments haven’t worked.
If you’re considering this treatment, you’re probably wondering about the cortisone shot cost. The price can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, who’s giving the shot, and whether you have insurance. It’s important to understand these costs upfront so you can plan accordingly.
Factors that influence the cost include the specific type of injection, your insurance coverage (or lack thereof), any consultation fees, and even your geographic location. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay.
What is a cortisone shot?
Cortisone is a type of corticosteroid, which is a medicine that lowers inflammation and affects the immune system.
Cortisone shots reduce pain and swelling by delivering steroids directly to the source of the problem. This targeted approach can provide significant relief.
Doctors commonly prescribe cortisone shots for conditions like:
- arthritis
- back pain
- bursitis
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- tendinitis
Factors Influencing the Cost of Cortisone Shots
The price you pay for a cortisone shot will vary based on a few different things.
Insurance Coverage
If you have health insurance, the cost of your cortisone shot will likely be lower. With insurance, you might pay a copay in the $20 to $50 range. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance company to see what your specific policy covers and how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
Location and Provider
Where you live can affect the price of a cortisone injection. In the U.S., the average cost ranges from around $40 to $650. For example, you might find that the cost in Houston, Texas, is different from the cost in Atlanta, Georgia, or Oakland, California, or Orlando, Florida.
The type of healthcare provider can also make a difference. Getting the injection at a hospital may cost more than getting it at your doctor’s office.
Type of Cortisone Injection
Not all cortisone injections are created equal. Different corticosteroids have different prices. A shot of triamcinolone acetonide might cost a different amount than a shot of methylprednisolone acetate, hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, or betamethasone.
The type of injection also matters. Without insurance, an intra-articular injection (into a joint) might cost $100 to $300. An epidural injection could be $300 to $1,500, depending on how complicated it is and where you get it. A soft tissue injection might be in the $100 to $300 range.
Cortisone Shot Cost: With and Without Insurance
Without insurance, a cortisone shot can run anywhere from $100 to over $500. The exact price depends on the type of cortisone used and where you get the injection.
If you have insurance, you’ll likely just pay a co-pay, typically between $20 and $50. If your injection is considered medically necessary, your insurance might cover the entire cost.
Keep in mind that you might have to pay extra for a consultation with the doctor. In some cases, you may also need imaging, like an X-ray or ultrasound, which will add to the total cost. Ultrasound-guided injections usually cost more than those done without imaging.
Types of Cortisone Injections and Their Costs
The cost of your cortisone shot will depend on what type of injection you get and where you get it.
Intra-articular Injections
If you have joint pain from a condition like knee osteoarthritis, your healthcare provider might recommend an intra-articular injection, which is an injection directly into the joint.
Without insurance, this type of injection typically costs from $100 to $300.
Epidural Injections
If you have back pain, you might get an epidural injection, which is an injection into the epidural space around your spinal cord.
These injections typically cost more than intra-articular injections, with a price range of $300 to $1,500. The exact cost depends on the complexity of the injection and where on your spine you get it.
Soft Tissue Injections
If you have tennis elbow or trigger finger, you might get a soft tissue injection, which is an injection into a muscle, tendon, or ligament.
Like intra-articular injections, these typically cost $100 to $300.
Benefits, risks, and side effects of cortisone injections
Cortisone shots are generally given to reduce pain and inflammation in a specific area of the body. The pain relief can last for weeks or even months, depending on your condition and how you respond to the medication.
As with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects.
Common side effects
Some of the more common side effects are:
- Pain at the injection site
- Bruising
- Flushing
- Temporary changes in appetite, blood sugar, and blood pressure
Serious side effects
More serious side effects are rare, but they can happen. These include:
- Allergic reactions
- Nerve damage
- Infection
- Bone loss (with long-term use)
It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of cortisone injections before you receive one. This will help you make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you.
Alternatives to cortisone shots
If you’re concerned about the cost of cortisone or wish to avoid the potential side effects, talk to your doctor about other ways to manage your pain and inflammation.
Depending on your condition, your doctor may suggest:
- physical therapy
- over-the-counter pain relievers
- lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or exercise
- newer treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or hyaluronic acid injections
- surgery
Questions to ask your doctor before getting a cortisone shot
Before you get a cortisone shot, talk with your doctor about all your options. Make sure you understand the potential side effects, and don’t be afraid to ask questions such as:
- What side effects might I experience?
- How often can I get a cortisone shot?
- What are the other possible treatments?
- How long will the pain relief last?
Finally, be sure to ask about the cost of the injection and any other fees you might be charged.
In Closing
The cortisone shot cost varies depending on where you live, the joint being treated, and whether you have insurance.
Before getting a cortisone injection, talk with your doctor about your treatment options, the expected costs, and any possible side effects. Cortisone isn’t a cure-all, and it might not be the right choice for you.
Do some research into the average cost in your area, and check with your insurance provider to see what portion of the cost they’ll cover. Don’t hesitate to ask the clinic or hospital for a cost estimate, too.