Alternatives to Cortisone Injections
Cortisone shots help a lot of people. They also wear off, and doctors limit how many you can have in one spot. If you have reached that point, there is another option worth knowing about.
A lot of people come to us after a shot in the shoulder, knee, or back that worked for a few weeks and then faded.
Why people start looking elsewhere
- The shot helped, but not for long.
- They have had several in the same spot and their doctor wants to hold off on more.
- They would rather not have another needle.
- An injection is not an option for them right now.
What cortisone does
A cortisone injection puts a corticosteroid next to an inflamed joint, tendon, or bursa. It calms the inflammation, and pain often drops within a few days. How long that lasts is different for everyone.
Doctors usually space injections out and cap how many go into one area, because repeated steroid doses can affect the tissue around it. Your own doctor is the right person to tell you where you stand.
Where High-Pressure Cryotherapy fits
High-Pressure Cryotherapy (HPC) uses high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO₂) to rapidly cool the skin over a specific treatment area. There is no medication and no needle.
Treatment takes about 3 to 6 minutes per area, and a first visit is usually 10 to 20 minutes including the consultation. Some people try HPC after they have run out of injections. Some use it alongside care their doctor already knows about. Some come before they have ever had a shot. Many patients report significant relief after their initial round of 2 to 5 sessions, and HPC may help with pain and inflammation. How much depends on what is behind the pain, and we cannot promise it will work for you. Results vary.
Other things to ask your doctor about
HPC is one option, not the only one. It is also worth asking about:
- Physical therapy and targeted exercise
- Changing the activity that set the pain off
- Bracing or supports
- Over-the-counter options your doctor approves
- Other injections or procedures a specialist may suggest
Please do not stop or change a treatment your doctor prescribed because of something you read here.
Areas where we see this most
Frequently asked questions
Can I have HPC after a cortisone shot?
It depends on your situation. Tell us where you were injected and when, and we will go over it at your consultation. We may suggest you check with the doctor who gave the shot first.
Will this replace my injections?
We do not promise that. Some people end up needing fewer other treatments and some keep following their doctor's plan alongside HPC. Decisions about injections stay between you and your doctor.
Does it hurt?
It feels very cold on the skin, and the cold only lasts a few minutes. We explain what to expect before we start, and you can stop at any point.
Is there medication or a needle involved?
No. HPC cools the skin over the treatment area with high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO₂). Nothing is injected.
How soon can I be seen?
Same-day appointments are often available at our Mineola and Rockville Centre locations. Book online or call and we will find the earliest time that works for you.
How many visits might I need?
For most people, we recommend an initial series of four to five sessions, then we check how you are doing. Many patients report relief after one or two visits, although individual responses may vary. Your plan depends on your situation, and we review how you are doing along the way. Results vary.
What does a visit cost?
The first treatment area is $90, with lower prices for additional areas, and discounted packages are available at our Rockville Centre location. See our pricing page for details.
This page is educational and is not medical advice. Individual results vary.