Injection-Based Treatments for Musculoskeletal Pain

Table of Contents:

• Common Pain Management Injection Options
• Cortisone Injection
• Injections for Back
• Hip Joint Injections
• Knee Joint Injections
• Injections for Sciatica
• Injections After Surgery
• What to Expect After Injections
• Are New Injections Still Being Invented?
• The Importance of a Comprehensive Approach
• Moving Forward with Non-Surgical Options
• The Next Steps in Your Care

Musculoskeletal pain can affect nearly every aspect of daily life — from walking and working to simply getting a good night’s sleep. This type of pain may arise from bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or nerves. It often develops after an accident or injury, such as a fracture, sprain, or dislocation. In other cases, it may build gradually due to repetitive stress, overuse, or degenerative changes like arthritis.

Common sources of musculoskeletal pain include car accidents, sports injuries, falls, workplace accidents, and age-related wear and tear. While rest, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy often play a first-line role in management, some patients may need additional support. That’s where injection-based treatments may be considered.

These procedures deliver targeted medication or biologic substances directly to the affected area. Depending on the type of injection, the goal may be to reduce inflammation, calm irritated nerves, improve mobility, or provide temporary relief from persistent pain. They are not the right choice for everyone, but for many, they can be an important part of a broader treatment plan.

Common Pain Management Injection Options

Patients often ask: “Which injection is used for pain relief?” There isn’t just one answer. The right option depends on the underlying cause of pain, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Below is a list of common injections physicians may consider:

• Cortisone Injections
• Epidural Steroid Injections
• Nerve Block Injections
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
• Botulinum Toxin (Botox®) Injections
• Viscosupplementation (Hyaluronic Acid Injections for the Knee)

Each of these injections work differently and may be used for specific conditions.

Cortisone Injection

Cortisone injections are among the most commonly used treatments for musculoskeletal conditions. They deliver corticosteroid medication directly into a joint, tendon sheath, or around a nerve to help reduce inflammation.

Doctors may recommend cortisone for arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, or joint pain affecting the hip, knee, or shoulder. A physician will help determine whether cortisone is an appropriate option based on a patient’s medical history.

Injections for Back

Back pain is one of the leading reasons people seek medical care. When conservative treatments are not enough, spinal injections may be considered.

What Spinal injections are commonly offered for back pain? 

• Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs): These deliver corticosteroids into the epidural space around spinal nerves. They may help reduce inflammation from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica.
• Nerve Block Injections: By temporarily numbing specific nerves, these injections can both relieve pain and help doctors identify its source.
• Facet Joint Injections: Target the small joints of the spine that may be affected by arthritis or injury.

It’s important to discuss potential side effects of back injections which can include soreness at the injection site, temporary numbness, and infection or nerve irritation.

Hip Joint Injections 

Hip pain can stem from arthritis, labral tears, or bursitis. In some cases, hip joint injections may provide targeted care. Depending on the condition, your physician may recommend:

• Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation in the joint or surrounding bursae.
• PRP therapy if the issue involves soft tissue damage or early joint degeneration.

These injections are typically performed under ultrasound imaging for the most accurate treatment. 

Injections for Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve — which runs from the lower back through the hips and legs — becomes irritated. This can cause sharp, radiating pain, numbness, or tingling. Epidural steroid injections and nerve block injections may be used to help calm inflammation around the nerve root.

Injections After Surgery

Sometimes, patients continue to experience pain even after surgery. In these cases, a physician may discuss injections for pain management as part of the patient’s care treatment. The type of injection can vary depending on the specific procedure, the tissues involved, and the source of lingering pain. Options may include cortisone injections, nerve blocks, or other targeted therapies.

Are New Injections Still Being Invented?

Yes. Researchers are continually studying and developing new injections thanks to advances in regenerative medicine and interventional pain management. PRP and stem cell-based therapies are examples of biologic approaches that have gained attention in recent years. While some options are still under study, they represent promising directions for future care.

Which Doctor Administers Injections for the Neck and Back?

Patients sometimes wonder: “Who actually performs these injections?” In most cases, they are administered by specialists such as:

• Physiatrists (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation doctors)
• Pain management physicians
• Orthopedic surgeons
• Sports Medicine Specialists

These physicians have specialized training to perform injections, often using imaging guidance for greater precision.

The Importance of a Comprehensive Approach

Injections can reduce pain for many patients, but outcomes vary, and doctors generally use them alongside other therapies tailored to each patient’s needs. Doctors often recommend combining them with physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other treatments. The purpose is to not only ease discomfort but also support mobility, strength, and overall function.

Every patient’s situation is unique. Injections are not appropriate for everyone, and results vary. That’s why a careful evaluation by a qualified physician is essential before moving forward with any procedure.

Moving Forward with Non-Surgical Options

Doctors may consider injections for patients dealing with persistent musculoskeletal pain in the back, hips, knees, or other areas. From cortisone injections to PRP therapy, there are multiple approaches that may help target inflammation, reduce irritated nerves, or support the body’s natural healing process.

If you’re wondering whether injections could be part of your care plan, the first step is to consult with a trusted physician who can evaluate your condition and discuss appropriate options.

The Next Steps in Your Care

MSR Injury Doctors can connect you with experienced non-surgical providers who can help explore ways to improve mobility, comfort and strength.

Ready to take the next step?  Contact MSR Injury Doctors at 800-949-6100 to learn more and see if you can be connected with a local non-surgical specialist.