Why Cortisone Shots Aren’t a Long-Term Solution

Apr 9

The truth about short-term relief and better, more natural alternatives for joint pain

If you’re dealing with nagging joint pain — whether in your knees, shoulders, hips, or back — you may have been offered a cortisone shot as a quick fix. And sure, cortisone can help… for a little while.

But here’s the thing: cortisone is not a cure — and over time, it can actually make your joint problems worse.

Let’s talk about why cortisone isn’t the long-term solution people think it is — and what regenerative medicine alternatives can actually help your body heal.

What Does a Cortisone Shot Do?

Cortisone is a steroid that’s injected into inflamed joints. It reduces swelling and dulls pain — fast.

But while it may feel like a miracle at first, cortisone only masks symptoms. It doesn’t fix what’s actually causing the joint damage.

The Hidden Risks of Repeated Cortisone Injections

While one cortisone shot might not cause harm, repeated use can lead to serious long-term issues:

Breakdown of cartilage and soft tissue
Weakened tendons (increasing the risk of rupture)
Joint instability
Worsening of the underlying problem
Delayed true healing

Studies show that too many cortisone injections can actually accelerate joint degeneration — not prevent it.

So… What’s the Alternative?

If you're looking for a natural cortisone alternative that actually promotes healing (instead of just numbing pain), regenerative medicine may be your answer.

Here’s what we use at NexGenEsis Healthcare:

1. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injections

Uses your own blood — no drugs or steroids
Packed with growth factors that reduce inflammation and stimulate healing
Ideal for mild to moderate arthritis, tendonitis, ligament injuries, and overuse pain
Zero risk of tissue breakdown — promotes repair instead

2. Stem Cell Therapy (Regenerative Cellular Therapy)

Uses powerful stem cells and growth factors to rebuild damaged tissue
Reduces pain and inflammation at the root cause
Great for bone-on-bone arthritis, meniscus tears, labrum damage, and chronic joint degeneration
Minimally invasive and can help you avoid joint replacement surgery

3. Prolotherapy or Biologic Injections

Stimulates the body’s own healing process
Improves joint stability, especially for ligament laxity
Used in combination with PRP for longer-lasting results

What’s the Big Picture?

Cortisone Injections	Regenerative Medicine
Rest & physical therapy	Targets healing at the source
Pain meds or cortisone	PRP or stem cell injections reduce inflammation naturally
Surgery for tears	May avoid surgery altogether with regenerative healing
Long recovery time	Minimally invasive, faster recovery

When to Consider a Cortisone Alternative

If you:

Have received multiple cortisone shots already
Feel like the relief never lasts
Want to avoid surgery or more medications
Are dealing with arthritis, tendonitis, or cartilage loss
— it’s time to consider a more sustainable option.

There’s a Better Way to Treat Joint Pain

At NexGenEsis Healthcare, we specialize in regenerative, drug-free joint treatments that focus on real healing — not just temporary relief.

Let’s find the root cause of your pain and help your body do what it’s meant to do: heal itself.

📞 Call (808) 347-6154 to schedule your personalized consultation today.

Kaylee Lin