RES BLOG

PRP Therapy vs. Cortisone Shots: Which is Better for Car Accident Pain Relief?

Oct 15, 2024

Car accident pain relief is crucial for a successful recovery. Two popular treatment options include Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy and cortisone shots. While cortisone shots offer fast relief, PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment designed for long-term healing.  

At RESPMR, we specialize in PRP therapy to help car accident victims recover from their injuries. Below, we explore the differences between PRP and cortisone shots to help you make an informed decision. 

What is PRP Therapy? 

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an advanced regenerative treatment that uses your body’s own blood to promote healing. During the procedure, a small amount of your blood is drawn and processed in a centrifuge to isolate and concentrate the platelets. These platelets contain growth factors that stimulate tissue repair. 

Once concentrated, the PRP is injected into the injured area, helping to regenerate damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and ultimately provide long-term relief from pain. 

PRP Benefits for Car Accident Pain Relief 

  • Promotes Natural Healing: PRP helps the body heal from the inside out by stimulating tissue repair, addressing the root cause of the injury rather than simply masking pain.
  • Minimally Invasive: PRP injections are a minimally invasive procedure, requiring no surgery or extensive recovery time.
  • Long-Term Relief: Since PRP repairs damaged tissues, it provides longer-lasting pain relief compared to treatments that only address inflammation.
  • Low Risk of Adverse Reactions: Because PRP uses your own blood, the likelihood of allergic reactions or complications is very low.
  • Effective for Chronic Injuries: PRP is especially useful for treating chronic pain and injuries that haven’t responded well to other treatments.
  • Covered by No-Fault Insurance: In Buffalo and the state of New York, no-fault insurance covers pain treatments like PRP therapy after a car accident. 

PRP Considerations 

  • Delayed Results: PRP therapy doesn’t provide immediate relief. It may take several weeks or months for noticeable improvement as the body heals.
  • Multiple Sessions May Be Required: Depending on the severity of the injury, patients may need multiple PRP treatments to achieve the best results.

What are Cortisone Shots? 

Cortisone shots, or corticosteroid injections, are commonly used to treat inflammation and pain in various joints and soft tissues. The injection contains a corticosteroid, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, that works by suppressing the immune response at the injection site, thereby reducing inflammation.  

Cortisone injections provide quick respite from pain, but their effects are usually temporary, and the shots do not contribute to healing the underlying injury. 

Cortisone Shot Benefits for Car Accident Pain Relief 

  • Quick Relief: Cortisone shots are known for providing rapid relief from pain and inflammation, often within a few days of the injection.
  • Effective for Acute Inflammation: Cortisone is ideal for treating acute flare-ups of pain, such as joint inflammation, bursitis, and tendonitis.
  • Widely Available: Cortisone shots are a common treatment in most medical practices and can be quickly administered in outpatient settings.

Cortisone Shot Considerations 

  • Temporary Relief: While cortisone provides fast pain relief, the effects are temporary, and the underlying injury may not heal. Patients may require repeat injections.
  • Potential Side Effects: Repeated cortisone injections can weaken tendons and ligaments, potentially causing long-term damage. There are also risks such as increased blood sugar levels and joint deterioration with repeated use.
  • Limited Frequency: Because of the potential side effects, cortisone shots are typically limited to a few injections per year in the same area. 

Which Treatment is Right for You? 

Choosing between PRP therapy and cortisone shots depends on your specific injury, pain level, and long-term recovery goals.  

PRP therapy is ideal for individuals looking for a regenerative solution that promotes healing and provides long-term relief, while cortisone shots may be suitable for those seeking immediate, temporary relief from inflammation and pain. 

At RESPMR, we specialize in PRP therapy to help car accident victims in Buffalo achieve long-term recovery and relief. While cortisone shots are effective for short-term symptom management, PRP therapy offers a more sustainable approach by targeting the underlying cause of your pain and helping your body heal naturally. 

Get Car Accident Pain Relief with RESPMR 

Both PRP therapy and cortisone shots have their place in pain management, but they serve different purposes. PRP is a regenerative option that promotes long-term healing, while cortisone shots offer quick, short-term relief by reducing inflammation. Understanding the differences between PRP and cortisone shots can help you choose the best treatment for your car accident-related injuries. 

If you’re experiencing pain from a car accident and want to explore your treatment options, contact RESPMR today to schedule a next-day appointment. Need a ride? No problem. We offer FREE Uber ride service to new patients!  

Our team is here to help you achieve lasting relief and recovery through advanced therapies like PRP. 

Schedule your appointment and begin your road to recovery

Need Transportation? We can provide free UBER ride service for your first appointment