Which Is Better for You: Hyaluronic Acid Injections or Cortisone Shots?

At Touchline Physio, we are asked this question a lot, and the response is quite simpler than you may imagine. It generally boils down to a few basic variables. The shortest answer to this is that the type of injection best suited for you depends on what your diagnosis is. A cortisone shot will suit you best if you have joint swelling, considerable joint pain, or discomfort that is not even related to your joints. This is mostly due to its quick pain-relieving qualities. On the other hand, hyaluronic acid injections in Westerham are recommended if you have been officially diagnosed with osteoarthritis and therefore find daily activities difficult and wish to preserve your joint function for as long as feasible. 

Cortisone Shot vs. Hyaluronic Acid Injection: The Eternal Debate 

Research shows that both hyaluronic acid injections and corticosteroids are efficient painkillers. They could, however, provide radically different results on different patients with different conditions. A proper diagnosis is necessary before you can decide which injection option is most appropriate for you. 

When can you opt for a corticosteroid injection, and what results can you expect?

For many years, corticosteroids—strong, injectable anti-inflammatory drugs—have been used as efficient pain relievers in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Corticosteroids can drastically reduce pain and oedema when administered. Corticosteroids start working within six hours after injection, although most people experience the benefits within the first two weeks. 

If short or medium terms are considered, corticosteroids are particularly efficient in reducing pain and swelling. You might as well treat cortisone shots in Westerham as a "window of opportunity" to treat the underlying source of your discomfort. It is highly recommended that every injection be accompanied by a period of physical therapy.

What is the purpose of a hyaluronic acid injection, and what results can one expect? 

Articular cartilage is a smooth layer that covers the interior surface of a joint and reduces friction. The synovial membrane is a layer that lies deep within the joint capsule and encloses each joint. The synovial membrane secretes something called synovial fluid, which lubricates joints and shields the articular cartilage. Hyaluronan receptor cells are found in abundance in both the articular cartilage and the synovial membrane. They bind to hyaluronic acid and lubricate the joints. Shock absorption is an important function of the hyaluronan cells and the hyaluronic acid they produce. Its viscoelastic (thick and sticky) qualities allow for this. 

Hyaluronic acid injections in Westerham provide improved joint function and long-term pain relief. It has been demonstrated that these advantages can last up to a year (though individual results may differ) and that they can be used twice a year without endangering the joint. Nevertheless, it must be noted that hyaluronic acid does not immediately affect discomfort or joint function. It may take two to five weeks for the effects to manifest, so some patience is needed.

The Verdict: Should you go for a cortisone shot or a hyaluronic acid injection?

Hyaluronic acid injections, as well as corticosteroids, have demonstrated pretty different mechanisms of action and effects. Your desired outcome and your diagnosis can determine which injection is best for you. Osteoarthritis, in particular, is treated with hyaluronic acid, which lubricates and shields a joint.  But, it is not expected to relieve pain rapidly. However, a corticosteroid injection will be necessary if you have been diagnosed with bursitis, nerve entrapment, or acute joint discomfort that is accompanied by swelling. 

In other words, a combination of corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid can benefit patients with acute flare-ups of pain and oedema from osteoarthritic joints. This combines the best of both. While the hyaluronic acid starts working in the long run, the corticosteroid fills the void with quick-acting pain relief. Book an appointment for cortisone shots in Westerham with Touchline Physio today!