Cortisone Decreases Bone, Ligament and Tendon Strength by Ross Hauser, MD
Cortisone Decreases Bone, Ligament and Tendon Strength
Ross Hauser, M.D. In my opinion, the quickest way for an patient or athlete to lose strength at the ligament-bone junction (fibro-osseous junction) is to inject cortisone to that area. Cortisone and other steroid injections ALL have the same detrimental effects on articular cartilage.
Corticosteroids, such as cortisone and Prednisone, have an adverse effect on bone and soft tissue healing. Corticosteroids inactivate vitamin D, limiting calcium absorption by the gastrointestinal tract, and increasing the urinary excretion of calcium. Bone also shows a decrease in calcium uptake with cortisone use, ultimately leading to weakness at the fibro-osseous junction. Corticosteroids also inhibit the release of Growth Hormone, which further decreases soft tissue and bone repair. Ultimately, corticosteroids lead to a decrease in bone, ligament, and tendon strength.