By Dr. John L. Ferrell III, M.D.(*)
When you’re dealing with pain from inflammation—whether it’s from arthritis, tendonitis, or even shoulder bursitis—cortisone shots often provide some of the quickest relief. But here’s the thing: while they work wonders in the short term, repeated cortisone use can cause some long-term problems, especially when it comes to tissue health.
We’ve all seen the effects: cortisone can start to wear down the tissues it’s supposed to protect. Over time, using cortisone near tendons like the rotator cuff, Achilles, or patellar tendons can make those tissues weaker, increasing the risk of a tendon rupture. The same goes for joints—injecting cortisone too often might speed up the breakdown of cartilage, contributing to the progression of arthritis.
Now, let’s talk about something exciting: a newer, smarter approach that could give you the best of both worlds. It’s called combining Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) with cortisone.
What Does the Research Say?
In a study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers found that adding PRP to a cortisone injection can actually preserve the anti-inflammatory effects of cortisone while reducing its harmful effects on tendon cells—specifically in tendinopathic conditions. To break that down for you: PRP doesn’t get in the way of cortisone’s ability to reduce inflammation, but it does help protect your tendons from damage.
Why Should You Care?
If you’re in the middle of a flare-up, cortisone might still be your best bet for fast relief. But if you’re worried about the long-term impact on your tissues, combining cortisone with PRP could be a much smarter choice. PRP is packed with growth factors that support healing and help maintain tissue integrity, which means less risk of degeneration in the long run.
Who Should Consider This Approach?
This combined treatment could be a game changer for you if:
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You’ve recently had an acute flare-up in your knee, shoulder, or ankle.
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You’ve had tendon pain in the past and cortisone helped, but you’re concerned about the long-term effects.
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You’re looking for a way to manage your pain while protecting your tissues over time.
We want to create a treatment plan that offers fast relief without compromising your future health. PRP and cortisone together could be just what you need.
Are You a Candidate for This Treatment?
Every patient is different. If you’re wondering whether combining cortisone with PRP is the right move for you, we’d love to help. Visit our website to schedule a consultation, and let’s talk about your unique situation. Together, we can come up with a plan that works for you—both now and in the long run.
