A large family of hormones, both occurring naturally and produced synthetically, that have profound and far-reaching effects on the tissue and metabolism of the body. In orthopedic medicine, corticosteroids, also called “cortisone” or “steroids,” are often used in injection form, and sometimes by mouth, to treat specific musculoskeletal injuries. When used appropriately, these medications have proven safe and effective. However, when abused, they can have devastating and dangerous side effects. Therefore, cortisone must be used by those physicians expertly trained on when and when not to use them. Usually, if you use sparingly on an otherwise healthy person, no problems are anticipated. However, patients with diabetes, heart failure, compromised immune systems, infections, or other medical conditions must use cortisone sparingly and with extra precaution. The reputation of cortisone as a bad drug is overplayed.