If you have ever had pain, then it is likely you have either been offered or received a corticosteroid (Cortisone) injection. It is something that is offered quite frequently in the orthopaedic realm. It is presented as something that can temporarily help with the pain, acting as a band aid for joint pain. There are also carrying timelines on how long the relief lasts. It can be anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
What typically is not discussed when these are offered is the negative side effects that come along with these injections. Research supported side effects include toxicity to cartilage, tendon degeneration, decrease immune system function, increase in blood glucose, and more.
The 2 biggest considerations in the orthopaedic realm are cartilage toxicity and tendon degeneration. What exactly does this mean for you in regards to your pain? Research shows that tendons become weaker after these injections, which increases the likelihood of tearing the tendon/muscle or developing tendinopathies. Research also shows that corticosteroids are actually toxic to the cartilage in your joints and increase the rate of degradation which accelerates osteoarthritis development. The issue with both of these side effects is that it typically makes whatever pain you were having before the injection worse in the long term. The more of these cortisone injections you get, the higher the risk of these negative side effects becomes.
Cortisone injections work to mask the pain, whereas physical therapy works to address what causes the pain in the first place. There are typically no negatives, short or long term, that come from trying physical therapy. An injection is a more immediate response though. Physical therapy takes time and effort to see results but they are long lasting and address the root cause of the problem. You will have discomfort initially while building the baseline for your treatment but after treatment you will be pain free. When it comes to dealing with pain, it is in your best interest long term to at least try physical therapy.
Do you have questions about Cortisone Injections or looking to start physical therapy? Give us a call at 703-450-4300 or CLICK HERE to request an evaluation!
https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/pdf?article=NzIwNw%3D%3D&journal=133
