Quote:
Originally Posted by bstenon
What is the feeling about having cortisone shots for joint pain instead of replacement surgery. Does it work and is it painful? Would you just go with Alieve instead of the shot? Thanks a friend is wondering what route to go.
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I can sympathize. I get shots in several of my joints on a regular basis (hips, knees, feet, etc.) for arthritis and sometimes I feel like I backed into a porcupine BUT for me it really helps. The one I get in my knees is a series of 3, one week apart and lasts me for 6 months. I have to say that I am immune to the sting of it when I get it in most places, but it does leave me needing to rest because of discomfort that evening although the next day I am fine. It is very worth it for me because of the relief I get although I know I will need replacements eventually. Not everyone is in the same place I am and when you need a replacement or when the shots aren't working you should consider other options. I get a shot in my hip under fluoroscopy (xray) while I am awake in the hospital every 5 months and that is very painful while they are doing it but it only takes 5 minutes or so and it helps a lot also. My doctor tells me every time I go to consider a hip replacement but as long as I can hold out for 5 months I am not going to and he is ok also with my decision. For me, taking a pain killer such as Tylenol or Alieve is not an optin instead and wouldn't work. It's a very individual thing and your friend and doctor have to consider the options. Since your question was about the shot and if they work and hurt, I hope I've answered that in relation to my experience.