Shockwave Therapy vs. Cortisone Injections: Which Is Right for You?

If you have been dealing with tendon pain, you may have heard about cortisone injections as a quick fix. Many people are also looking for an option that treats the problem more directly, without needles or surgery. Understanding how each approach works can help you have a more informed conversation with your provider.

What Cortisone Injections Do

Cortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. An injection can offer short-term relief from pain, which is helpful for some people. However, the relief is not always lasting, and it does not address every cause of tendon pain. Some people find their symptoms return after the initial benefit wears off.

What Shockwave Therapy Does

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy uses gentle, targeted acoustic pulses directed at the painful tendon. These pulses stimulate the body’s natural healing response, encouraging tissue repair in areas that have been slow to recover. It is designed to work with your body rather than mask the pain.

How They Compare

Cortisone is delivered by injection, which means a needle and, for many people, a numbing step beforehand. Shockwave therapy involves no needles, no incisions and no anesthesia. Surgery is a more invasive option that comes with a longer recovery, so many people in the Vancouver Lower Mainland prefer to explore non-invasive care first.

Who Each Option Suits

The right choice depends on your specific injury, how long you have had symptoms and your overall health. Every case is different, so it is worth discussing both options with a qualified provider who can assess your situation and explain the trade-offs.

What a Typical Shockwave Plan Looks Like

Most people receive shockwave therapy in a series of about 5 to 6 treatments, usually scheduled weekly. Your plan is tailored to your symptoms and how your body responds.

Take the Next Step

Why live with pain? You don’t have to. If you are looking for a non-invasive alternative, book a consultation to find out whether shockwave therapy is right for you. Learn more at shockwavetherapybc.com.