Chronic pain often disrupts daily life, especially for those with spinal or joint conditions. At Freedom Spine & Pain Center, patients are treated by highly trained, board-certified specialists. Dr. Rajesh K. Sharma is Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management and completed dual residencies in Internal Medicine and Anesthesiology, along with a fellowship in Interventional Pain Management.
Dr. Vrunda H. Pandya is Board Certified in Anesthesiology, trained at NYU, and completed a fellowship at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell. She also serves as an Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Medicine. With their expertise, patients receive advanced care tailored to their condition. Among available treatments, PRP therapy and cortisone injections are two leading options for relief.
What Is PRP Therapy?
PRP, or platelet-rich plasma, therapy involves using a concentrated portion of a patient’s own blood to promote healing. After drawing a blood sample, the platelets are separated and injected into the injured or painful area to stimulate tissue repair.
PRP is increasingly used in treating:
- Joint pain
- Spinal inflammation
- Soft tissue injuries
- Degenerative disc conditions
Because the patient’s cells are used, PRP is considered a natural regenerative treatment that supports long-term healing rather than masking symptoms.
What Are Cortisone Injections?
Cortisone injections are steroid-based treatments designed to reduce inflammation. They are commonly used in joints or areas around the spine to deliver fast relief from swelling and pain. Most patients notice improvement within a few days of the injection.
These injections are especially helpful in treating:
- Acute inflammation
- Arthritis flare-ups
- Nerve irritation
- Sciatica and lower back pain
However, cortisone is not a long-term solution. Frequent use can lead to tissue weakening and diminished results over time.
Comparing PRP and Cortisone Injections
While both treatments offer pain relief, they differ in purpose, duration, and approach.
Key differences include:
- PRP promotes healing over time, while cortisone offers immediate but temporary relief
- PRP uses natural components from the patient’s blood
- Cortisone is a synthetic steroid and may carry more side effects with repeated use
- PRP may require multiple sessions to see full benefits
- Cortisone is often limited in the number of doses that can be safely given per year
Each option has a role in managing pain, but the choice depends on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and long-term health goals.
Personalized Care for Pain Relief in Texas Hill Country
Chronic pain does not have to be a permanent part of daily life. Whether you are dealing with spine issues, joint discomfort, or soft tissue injuries, there are proven treatment options available.
For lasting, regenerative relief, PRP therapy may offer the healing support your body needs. If fast, targeted inflammation control is the priority, cortisone injections might be more appropriate. To learn which option is best for your pain, schedule a consultation at Freedom Spine & Pain Center by calling 210-920-8945.