How effective is cortisone injection for pseudogout?

Pseudogout is an inflammatory reaction to calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposits inside a joint. A clinician may inject corticosteroid into the joint to quiet the flare, particularly when one joint is very swollen and other medicines are unsuitable. The response depends on the joint, the intensity of inflammation, and whether the diagnosis is correct. Fluid may be removed for testing before injection. Cortisone treats the inflammation rather than permanently clearing the deposits, so later flares can still occur.

During a flare, protect the joint from painful loading, use cold packs as advised, and take prescribed medicines exactly as directed. Keep a record of which joints swell and how quickly symptoms develop. Discuss kidney disease, stomach problems, blood thinners, diabetes, and previous reactions before an injection. Learn more about [Pseudogout](/conditions/pseudogout/) and [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/).

A suddenly painful, hot, swollen joint with fever or feeling very unwell needs urgent assessment because joint infection can resemble pseudogout. Seek prompt help if redness spreads, the pain escalates quickly, or you cannot move or use the joint. After injection, report increasing warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, or new weakness rather than assuming it is another flare.

Ask whether joint fluid should be tested before injection, how infection will be excluded, what improvement to expect, and how long to protect the joint. Ask about oral options, prevention of future flares, and whether your other conditions affect steroid treatment.