When pain from an injury or chronic condition gets in the way of daily life, finding relief becomes a top priority. Two common treatment options that people often hear about are shockwave therapy and cortisone shots. Both can help reduce pain, but they work in very different ways. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make the best choice for your health and long-term recovery.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the body. A handheld device delivers targeted pulses of energy to injured tissues such as tendons, ligaments, or muscles. This process increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and encourages the body’s natural healing response.
It’s often used for conditions like plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, tendonitis, and chronic muscle pain. Many patients notice improvements after just a few sessions, though multiple treatments are usually recommended.
What Are Cortisone Shots?
Cortisone shots are injections of corticosteroid medication directly into an inflamed area, such as a joint, tendon, or muscle. They are commonly used to relieve pain from arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. Cortisone reduces inflammation quickly, often giving patients fast relief.
The procedure is typically done in a doctor’s office and can provide results within a few days. Depending on the condition, relief may last for several weeks or months, but cortisone does not actually heal the underlying issue—it mainly addresses the symptoms.
Pros of Shockwave Therapy
One of the biggest benefits of shockwave therapy is that it is non-invasive. There are no needles, no medications, and no need for anesthesia. This makes it a safe option for many people who want to avoid injections or surgery.
Another advantage is that it encourages the body to heal itself. Instead of just masking the pain, shockwave therapy improves circulation and cell repair in the affected area. Over time, this can lead to lasting improvements.
Patients also appreciate that shockwave therapy has little to no downtime. Most people can return to their regular activities right after treatment.
Cons of Shockwave Therapy
While effective, shockwave therapy is not a quick fix. It usually requires several sessions over a period of weeks, and results may take time to appear. Some patients may feel soreness or mild discomfort after treatment, though this usually fades quickly.
Another drawback is that not all insurance plans cover shockwave therapy. Depending on your provider, you may need to pay out of pocket.
Finally, shockwave therapy is not suitable for everyone. People with certain health conditions, such as blood clotting disorders or nerve problems, may need to explore other options.
Pros of Cortisone Shots
Cortisone injections are known for their fast relief. For someone experiencing severe pain, this can be life-changing. Many patients feel better within days, allowing them to return to work, exercise, or daily activities more comfortably.
Cortisone shots are also widely available and often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option in many cases. They can be especially helpful for short-term relief when pain is preventing someone from participating in physical therapy or other long-term treatments.
Cons of Cortisone Shots
The biggest downside of cortisone shots is that they do not fix the root problem. While they reduce inflammation, they do not encourage the body to heal. This means the pain often comes back once the medication wears off.
Over time, repeated cortisone shots can cause side effects. These may include thinning of the skin, weakening of tendons, and even damage to cartilage. Because of this, most doctors limit how many cortisone injections a patient can receive in a year.
Cortisone also doesn’t work for everyone. Some people may feel little to no relief, while others might only get temporary results.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between shockwave therapy and cortisone shots depends on your health goals and situation. If you’re looking for fast, short-term relief, cortisone may be the better option. However, if you want a treatment that promotes long-term healing and avoids medication, shockwave therapy may be worth exploring.
In many cases, doctors or chiropractors may recommend combining treatments. For example, a cortisone shot might be used to quickly reduce pain so that a patient can begin physical therapy or other rehabilitation. Shockwave therapy, on the other hand, can be part of a longer-term plan for lasting recovery.
Final Thoughts
Both shockwave therapy and cortisone shots have their place in pain management. Cortisone injections can provide quick relief, but they come with risks if used too often. Shockwave therapy is a safer, non-invasive option that focuses on healing, though it requires patience and consistency.
The best way to know which treatment is right for you is to speak with a healthcare professional who understands your condition and overall health. With the right plan, you can find relief from pain and get back to living the life you love.
If you’re exploring safe and effective options for pain relief, schedule an appointment with a Draper Chiropractor today to see if shockwave therapy is the right choice for you.
