Extreme Knee Pain after Cortisone Shot

[eri864]

I had a cortisone shot this morning and it was severely uncomfortable.  After the numbing agent wore off, it felt as if someone has taken a wedge and shoved it between my knee cap and shin ever since. I cannot put much pressure on my right knee as I feel like my knee will break upward. The actual knee cap is very sore on the opposite side of the injection site and it's terribly uncomfortable to straighten it out as it feels like my knee cap is going into my thigh. There is also a massive amount of swelling that radiates up to my thigh and down towards my shin.
I am 23 and this injury is 10 years old. This is my first round of treatment. Is this type of pain normal? If so, how long will this last?

[eri864]

Is it normal to still be in so much pain? Should I go to the E.R.?

[eri864]

Thank you so much for your help. I contacted the on-site orthopedic specialist and he stated it could take up to two weeks. I've been in contact with my doctor's nurse and she advised I take 2 Aleve 2 times a day and if it's not better by next week they will get me in for an appointment.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
I am sorry to hear about your medical problems.  Pain and swelling after cortisone shot can be due to infection or due to bursitis. Apply ice, rest your leg, take pain killer if you have been prescribed one and call your doctor immediately. This needs urgent investigation if it has persisted beyond 24-48 hours. Hope this helps. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.