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Home » Articles » Pain Meds or Injections? A Look at Long-Term Relief for Musculoskeletal Pain

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Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain – whether it be from arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, or injury – is one of the most common causes of chronic discomfort. If you’re living with joint or soft tissue pain, you’ve probably tried the usual first-line treatments: over-the-counter painkillers, rest, maybe some physiotherapy.  But when the pain keeps coming back or starts interfering with daily life, the question arises:
Do I keep taking pain meds, or is it time to consider injections?

In this blog, we take a closer look at long-term relief options, comparing traditional pain medications with a growing range of ultrasound-guided MSK injections, including Arthrosamid®, Prolozone, Cortisone, nSTRIDE, Hyaluronic Acid, and Hydrodistension.

The Role of Pain Medications

Pain medications, such as NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) or paracetamol, are often the first tools in the toolbox. They reduce inflammation and dull pain, helping you get through the day. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger medications like opioids, though these are typically reserved for short-term use due to the risk of dependence.

Limitations of Pain Meds:

  • Good for short-term symptom relief
  • Do not treat the underlying cause
  • Potential side effects with long-term use (e.g. gut irritation, liver or kidney issues)
  • Can mask pain but not stop progression of joint damage

That’s where targeted MSK injections come in.  They offer relief that goes beyond symptom masking.

Why Consider MSK Injections?

Unlike systemic medications, injections are precise as they deliver treatment directly to the source of pain. Many are performed under ultrasound guidance, ensuring accurate placement for maximum effect.

The most effective types of MSK injections available today, and how they stack up for long-term pain relief:

Arthrosamid® – Next-Gen Relief for Knee Osteoarthritis

What it is: Arthrosamid® is a non-biodegradable hydrogel (polyacrylamide) injected into the knee joint

How it works: Cushions the joint and reduces inflammation by integrating into the joint lining

Ideal for: Moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis

Benefits:

  • Long-lasting relief – studies show sustained results up to 5 years
  • No steroid component (ideal for those avoiding cortisone)
  • Minimally invasive alternative to surgery

Best for: Patients seeking a steroid-free, durable solution for knee pain

Prolozone Injections – Oxygen and Nutrients for Healing

What it is: Prolozone Injections are a mix of ozone gas, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds

How it works: Ozone increases oxygen delivery to damaged tissues, promoting regeneration and reducing pain

Ideal for: Ligament injuries, tendonitis, back pain, joint instability

Benefits:

  • Encourages natural tissue healing
  • Reduces inflammation and stimulates collagen repair
  • Holistic, low-toxicity option for chronic pain

Best for: Those seeking a regenerative, natural therapy

Cortisone Injections – Fast, Reliable Inflammation Relief

What it is: Cortisone Injections are synthetic steroids that mimics the body’s anti-inflammatory hormone

How it works: Reduces inflammation and pain within joints or soft tissues

Ideal for: Arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, frozen shoulder

Benefits:

  • Rapid pain relief (often within days)
  • Effects may last weeks to months

Best for: Short-term symptom control or flare-ups

nSTRIDE® APS – Your Own Blood, Supercharged

What it is: nSTRIDE® APS is a biologic injection derived from your own blood, rich in anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors

How it works: Reduces joint pain and slows cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis

Ideal for: Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis

Benefits:

  • Autologous (your own blood), so no rejection risk
  • Targets biological causes of OA
  • Relief may last 12–24 months from a single injection

Best for: Those seeking cutting-edge, natural, long-lasting joint support

Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Viscosupplementation)

What it is: Hyaluronic Acid Injections are a gel-like substance that mimics the body’s natural joint fluid

How it works: Adds lubrication to the joint, reducing friction and improving movement

Ideal for: Early to moderate knee osteoarthritis, shoulder impingement

Benefits:

  • Improves joint mobility
  • Steroid-free
  • Can delay or prevent the need for surgery

Best for: Mid-stage cases where painkillers are inadequate

Hydrodistension (Capsular Stretching)

What it is: Hydrodistension is a high-volume saline injection, often combined with steroid, into a joint capsule

How it works: Stretches a tight joint capsule, especially in frozen shoulder

Ideal for: Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

Benefits:

  • Improves range of motion
  • Reduces stiffness and pain
  • Often paired with physiotherapy for best results

Best for: When stiffness is the primary concern rather than just pain

Pain Meds vs. MSK Injections: A Quick Comparison

Pain medications are a helpful first step, however when the pain becomes persistent or affects your quality of life, it’s worth considering options that go beyond short-term relief.  From fast-acting cortisone to regenerative treatments, MSK injections offer a more personalised, targeted alternative to daily pills.  The key is choosing the right treatment based on your condition, goals, and lifestyle.

Private Injection Clinics specialise in ultrasound-guided MSK injections tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re managing arthritis, a sports injury, or postural pain, we’re here to help you move better – with less pain. For more information please take a look at our website.

Private Injection Clinics are based on the coast in Leigh on Sea and in Colchester, Essex – perfect for patients in Essex, Kent, London, and surrounding areas.  

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