When faced with chronic joint pain or soft tissue injuries, patients are often offered a choice between traditional cortisone injections and regenerative approaches like PRP therapy. Both have their place in orthopaedic care, but they work in fundamentally different ways. So, how do you decide between PRP vs cortisone injection?
Understanding the Difference
Cortisone injections are widely used in orthopaedics to manage inflammation and pain. They offer fast relief by suppressing the body’s inflammatory response, which can be particularly helpful in acute flare-ups of conditions like shoulder tendonitis or knee osteoarthritis. However, cortisone does not contribute to long-term healing and repeated use may weaken tissues over time.
On the other hand, PRP therapy uses a concentration of your own platelets to encourage healing at the site of injury. It works by releasing growth factors that support tissue repair, making it a more regenerative option rather than just a symptom suppressor.
Effectiveness: What the Research Says
Studies comparing PRP vs cortisone injection show varied outcomes depending on the condition being treated. For example:
- In knee osteoarthritis, PRP may offer longer-lasting relief than cortisone, with some patients reporting symptom improvement for up to 12 months.
- For chronic tendon issues like tennis elbow, PRP has shown promising results in promoting healing, whereas cortisone may provide only temporary relief.
That said, cortisone can still be valuable in cases where immediate pain relief is needed, especially in acute or severe inflammation.
Short-Term vs Long-Term Outcomes
Cortisone typically provides faster results, often within 48 hours. However, the effect may wear off within a few weeks or months, especially in cases of chronic degeneration. PRP therapy may take longer to show noticeable improvements—often a few weeks after the injection—but the benefits may last longer and address the root of the problem.
Side Effects and Considerations
While cortisone is effective, repeated use can increase the risk of cartilage damage, tendon weakening, or joint space narrowing. PRP therapy, being autologous (from your own body), carries a lower risk profile and is considered safer for repeated use over time.
Choosing the Right Option for You
The choice between PRP and cortisone depends on your goals, health status, and the nature of your injury. If immediate symptom relief is the priority, cortisone might be considered. If long-term healing is your focus, PRP may offer a more sustainable path.
