Expert Advice   Print Version Q. My doctor has suggested a cortisone injection for my back. I have heard that cortisone is bad for you. What are the risks of having a cortisone injection? A. Cortisone is a steroid. Steroids have gotten a bad reputation because of some really bad side effects suffered by people who take steroid pills over a long period of time. One or two injections of cortisone into a sore joint or aching back do not carry the same risks. There are more risks associated with the actual injection into the spinal canal. These risks include infection, bleeding, and headache caused by leaking spinal fluid. Print Version		Anatomy and Function of the Spine Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis Diagnostic Tests for Spine Problems Q. When can I play golf, ride a bike, or go hiking after spine surgery? A. It depends on the type and location of your surgery. A micro-discectomy… Clicking on any of the links will take you to a Web site to which this Privacy Policy does not apply. You are solely responsible for your interactions with such Web sites. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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