Treatment Alternatives Before A Cortisone Shot

You or someone you know have likely had a cortisone shot or had been recommended to have one by a doctor as an option for pain relief. Cortisone is a steroid that when used in this way can combat inflammation in soft tissue temporarily. Although this can be helpful to some, the relief typically lasts for only 3-6 months and doesn’t heal the affected area.

Because cortisone shots have no ability to heal you when they work, many have looked for alternatives to cortisone shots. We’ll discuss more about cortisone shots and their alternatives below.

How Do I Know I Need a Cortisone Shot?

Generally, cortisone shots are recommended for people who have had pain for weeks related to inflammation and have not found relief in anti-inflammatory medication, ice, and heating pads. Depending on the source of the pain and inflammation, a cortisone shot may make it easier for someone to partake in physical therapy or chiropractic care to help facilitate the healing process.

Common side effects include insomnia as well as increased blood sugar levels. More rare side effects include decreased bone density over time as well as adrenal gland suppression.

What Are Some Alternatives to a Cortisone Shot?

One trusted alternative to a cortisone shot is the Graston Technique®. Only trained and certified practitioners are allowed to use this treatment method. It requires specialized stainless-steel tools designed to locate and treat the source of pain within your soft tissue, as opposed to temporary relief.

Once the affected area is located, often very deep below the surface of the skin, the stainless-steel tools are used to perform a cross-fiber massage. This massage technique results in the breaking up of the invisible scar tissue or adhesions around the affected muscle, tendon, or ligament, allowing for pain relief and increased mobility. The broken-up adhesions are then absorbed back into the body.

Studies have shown that the Graston Technique® has a higher success rate than a cortisone shot, which may have as little as a 50% chance of being effective. Some side effects include minor discomfort during its implementation as well as minor bruising. Those who respond well to the technique begin to notice positive results as early as their third treatment.

East Bay Chiropractic Wellness Has The Tools To Help Relieve Pain

While cortisone shots are often suggested by doctors as a way to temporarily alleviate joint pain and inflammation, they have no healing properties of their own, resulting in pain inevitably flaring back up.

For more than 35 years, East Bay Chiropractic Wellness P.C. has provided a wide range of chiropractic services to provide our clients with the best path for them to pain relief. We can work with you on pain management and restoring your range of motion through massage, stretching exercises, spinal adjustments, as well as the Graston Technique®, which has been shown to facilitate faster and more successful rehabilitation. Schedule an appointment today to be evaluated and determine how we can best improve your quality of life.