How do steroids help arthritis?

Steroids (short for corticosteroids) are man-made drugs that closely resemble cortisol, a hormone that your adrenal glands make. They work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system. Steroid injections are one of the most effective ways to ease pain and improve your ability to move, but they generally don't cure the illness.

Steroids treat a variety of inflammatory diseases and conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Steroid injections can be added to a treatment program that may already include pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or supportive devices such as canes and braces.