If you’ve ever struggled with stiff, achy, or painful joints, you know how frustrating osteoarthritis (OA) can be. Since cartilage lost to OA doesn’t grow back, many people assume that joint replacement surgery is their only option—but that’s not the case! Joint injections offer a minimally invasive way to relieve pain and improve mobility without the need for surgery. With several types available, it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor to find the best fit for you. Could joint injections be the solution you’ve been looking for?
How do they work?
Joint injections are powerful anti-inflammatories that stay within the knee or hip joint, providing pain relief for weeks or even months. Several types can help manage arthritis pain. Remember, injections won’t worsen joint degeneration or regrow lost cartilage, but they can be an effective way to reduce discomfort.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections (aka cortisone shots) are a go-to for many for pain relief. They work by calming down inflammation in the joint, reducing swelling and pain. For some, these injections provide relief for several months, making it easier to move without discomfort.
If you have advanced arthritis where the joint is “bone on bone,” cortisone shots can still be effective, which is why they’re a common choice. Plus, most, if not all, insurance plans cover them, making cortisone shots an accessible option for many suffering from osteoarthritis.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Think of hyaluronic acid injections like oiling a squeaky door hinge. These injections add lubrication to the joint, reducing friction, making movement smoother, and thus reducing painful inflammation in your joint. This can help ease pain and stiffness—but they work best if you still have some cartilage left in the joint.
If your arthritis is in the early or moderate stages, these injections might help keep things moving comfortably.
Platelet Rich Plasma Injections
Platelet rich plasma injections (PRP) use platelets from YOUR blood, which are a potent anti-inflammatory, to treat the symptoms of your arthritis (pain and stiffness). PRP is considered a natural treatment because it is derived from your own blood.
Because PRP injections come from your body, there is no limit to how many PRP injections that you can receive. PRP can also be combined with other injections like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid for enhanced benefits.
The Takeaway on Joint Injections and Arthritis
While joint injections can’t reverse arthritis, they offer effective pain relief by reducing inflammation. Since no treatment can regrow cartilage, early evaluation is key to managing OA and slowing its progression. Talk to your doctor to explore your options and find the best plan for keeping your joints healthy and pain-free.
