Injections are one of the most commonly used interventions in an orthopedic practice. Yet, where, how and what is injected is of vital importance, and certain approaches are just not in the best interest of the patient. Here are injections we prefer you avoid:
1) Injections for musculoskeletal conditions given in a chiropractic or primary care office. Both chiropractors, chiropractic mid-levels (NPs and PAs) along with PCPs all often do a great job in their respective specialties. However, giving injections optimally is just not in their wheelhouse. Therefore, if an injection is needed or suggested, then seek the expertise of an orthopedic specialist.
2) Receive a series of steroid injections for soft tissue conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, tennis/golfer’s elbow or gluteal tendinopathy (often mislabeled as “hip bursitis”). We often use the statement, “better in the short term, worse in the long-term.” This really applies to situations when multiple steroid injections are given in a short period of time, as they ultimately can lead to further breakdown and tearing of these tendons/fascia.
3) Receive a steroid injection for Achilles, patellar or quadriceps tendon problems. These tendons are much higher risk for rupture, especially if exposed to a steroid injection. If anyone suggests a steroid for one of these conditions, then RUN (figuratively)!
4) Pay top dollar for an orthobiologic injection such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) without ultrasound guidance. It’s your choice to have this injection if it’s non-guided but just realize that accuracy is so important with this type of injection. There is no way to ensure the solution is making it to the intended area without ultrasound.
5) Receive “stem cell” injections that do not come from your own tissue. If a stem cell injection is being suggested, it should be derived from your bone marrow or your adipose (fat) tissue. Most of these products "ordered for you” do not actually contain any live stem cells, and at this point, are not approved by the FDA for usage in musculoskeletal conditions.
