"Say Goodbye to Steroid Injections: Why Shockwave Therapy is a Better Alternative for Long-Term Pain Relief"

19 Mar

Steroid Injections V’s Shockwave

Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are a class of drugs commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain. They work by suppressing the immune system's response, which can be helpful in managing conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and allergies. However, long-term use of steroids can have negative effects on joints and tendons.

1. Joint Deterioration

One of the most significant risks of long-term steroid use is joint deterioration. Steroids can reduce the body's ability to produce collagen, which is essential for maintaining healthy joints. This can lead to cartilage breakdown and joint damage, making the affected joint more prone to injury and pain.

2. Tendon Weakening

Steroids can also weaken tendons over time. Tendons are fibrous connective tissues that attach muscles to bones, and they are critical for joint stability and movement. Long-term steroid use can cause tendons to become thin and weak, increasing the risk of tendon rupture or injury.

3. Osteoporosis

Steroids can also cause osteoporosis, a condition characterized by the loss of bone density and increased risk of fractures. Steroids can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium and can cause bones to become brittle and weak. This can lead to a higher risk of fractures, particularly in the spine, hips, and wrists.

4. Muscle Weakness

Steroids can cause muscle weakness, particularly in large muscle groups such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. This can make it more challenging to perform everyday activities and can increase the risk of falls and injuries.

5. Increased Risk of Infection

Steroids can suppress the immune system, which can increase the risk of infections. This can be particularly problematic in individuals with compromised immune systems. Risk of infection however is low and infections are a risk factor with any type of injection.

6. Hormonal Imbalances

Steroids can disrupt the body's hormonal balance, leading to a range of side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and acne. In men, steroids can cause testicular shrinkage and reduced sperm production, while in women, they can cause menstrual irregularities.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy on the other hand has no known long term negative effects, whether it be radial or focused, is a non-invasive treatment option that can provide relief from pain and inflammation by stimulating the body’s own natural healing responses. Shockwave therapy offers several advantages to patients:

1. Non-Invasive

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that does not require needles or injections. This means that there is no risk of infection or other complications associated with invasive procedures.

2. Minimal Side Effects

Unlike steroids, shockwave therapy has minimal side effects. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or bruising after treatment, but these effects are typically short-lived and do not require any special care.

3. Long-Lasting Effects

Shockwave therapy can provide long-lasting effects. While steroid injections may offer temporary relief, shockwave therapy stimulates the body's natural healing process, leading to long-term pain relief and improved function.

4. No Need for Repeated Treatments

Patients who undergo shockwave therapy may not require repeated treatments as the effects can be long-lasting. Steroid injections, on the other hand, may require repeated treatments to maintain pain relief.

5. Treats the Root Cause of Pain

Shockwave therapy treats the root cause of pain, while steroids only provide temporary relief. Shockwave therapy stimulates the body's natural healing process, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, leading to long-lasting pain relief.

6. Can be used for a wide range of conditions

Shockwave therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and more. Steroid injections, on the other hand, may have limited efficacy in some conditions and can have negative effects on joints and tendons when used long term.

While steroid injections may be effective in providing temporary relief from pain and inflammation, they can have negative effects on joints and tendons when used long term. Shockwave therapy, is a non-invasive treatment option that can provide long-lasting pain relief without the negative effects associated with steroids. If you are considering treatment for a chronic condition, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option with our Physiotherapist.