If you’re struggling to find joint pain relief, you might be considering joint injections as your next step. Cortisone injections are a common procedure with the goal of reducing pain in damaged joints. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and other orthobiologic injections are gaining popularity in sports medicine and orthopedics. Learn the differences between these two non-operative treatment options and how to determine what’s best for you.
Traditionally a more common and well-known approach, cortisone injections are used by orthopedic specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics to treat a wide variety of conditions. Derived from a type of steroid called corticosteroids that became popular because of their strong anti-inflammatory properties and instant pain relief, cortisone injections are most commonly administered to reduce joint inflammation and pain and get people back to their everyday activities.
Considered a short-term solution, cortisone injections act as more of a band-aid to the underlying issue and require close monitoring, as frequent usage can cause tissue damage and unwanted side effects. While the injection reduces pain, it typically doesn’t cure the underlying problem causing the inflammation.
Cortisone shots effectively treat conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis, among others. These injections target inflammation to relieve acute injuries or chronic conditions causing joint pain. However, since they are not intended for frequent use, your doctor will guide you on how often you can have a cortisone injection to minimize risks. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we administer cortisone judiciously and as part of a broader interventional pain management plan.
You may notice initial soreness or swelling at the injection site, which typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours. Many patients experience noticeable pain relief within a few days, but for some, it takes up to a week to feel the full effects. Rest the treated area and avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours to allow the medication to work effectively. Your doctor may recommend certain follow-up care or physical therapy to maximize the injection’s benefits.
Relief from a cortisone shot typically lasts a few weeks to several months, depending on the condition and the individual’s response. Many patients enjoy significant pain reduction and improved mobility during this period, allowing them to participate in physical therapy or other treatments aimed at addressing the root cause of their pain.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides cortisone injections, with experienced medical providers administering treatment based on your unique situation. Our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and Tipton, IN, make it easy to access the care you need.
PRP injections are a form of regenerative medicine that uses the healing properties in your blood to treat joint and muscle pain. First, a doctor draws your blood and places it in a machine to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood. Then, the PRP is injected back into the affected area to reduce pain and promote healing.
PRP injections are particularly beneficial for treating chronic tendon injuries, ligament sprains, and joint degeneration caused by osteoarthritis, making them a direct replacement for cortisone shots. Because this method uses your own blood, it helps you naturally recover from sports injuries or overuse syndromes without relying on medications or invasive procedures.
After a PRP injection, you may experience some soreness or mild swelling in the treated area, which is a normal part of the healing process. Unlike cortisone injections, which aim to suppress inflammation, PRP encourages a controlled inflammatory response to stimulate tissue repair. Avoid strenuous activities for a few days and follow up with your doctor to track your progress.
Patients often report noticeable improvements in pain and function within a few weeks of receiving a PRP injection, with results continuing to improve over several months. Unlike cortisone, which provides immediate but temporary relief, PRP encourages long-term healing and regeneration. Depending on the severity and nature of your condition, the benefits of a PRP injection can last up to a year or more.
When comparing PRP injections to cortisone injections, consider that both treatments have their place in interventional pain management. Cortisone is best for quick pain relief and reducing inflammation, making it ideal for acute injuries or flare-ups of chronic conditions. On the other hand, PRP focuses on long-term healing by promoting tissue regeneration. Cortisone provides relief for a few months, but PRP offers more sustained results because it addresses the underlying causes of pain.
Even when understanding these differences in mechanisms and outcomes, it can be difficult to choose the best option for you. The specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics can guide you through the risks, benefits and alternative options to help you get back to living the life you want.
For the past 40+ years, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics has perfected our patient-centered approach. Unlike many larger institutions, we’ll never treat you like just another number. Instead, we’ll work closely with you to formulate a clear action plan before you leave the office. Our comprehensive facilities offer physician consultations, diagnostic imaging and treatment all under one roof.
Our very own Dr. Matthew Negaard specializes in ultrasound-guided injections, PRP treatments, orthobiologics and sports medicine. Whether you’re considering cortisone, PRP, or other treatments, we’ll help you overcome obstacles to achieve the best possible outcomes. Contact us today to request a consultation at one of our offices in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville or Tipton, IN.
Orthobiologic treatments have not been authorized by the FDA and are considered experimental by the FDA.
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