Cortisone shots are often handed out without warnings or disclaimers, but at what cost?

In this episode, Stacey breaks down the real science behind corticosteroid injections and why science has shown their short-term relief may come with long-term consequences.

From cartilage damage to increased risk of joint replacement, you’ll learn why informed consent matters and what safer, evidence-based alternatives you can explore.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:01:00] Cortisone’s reputation vs. reality: widely used but only provides short-term relief

[00:02:22] JAMA study: Corticosteroid every 3 months = more cartilage loss, no better pain relief

[00:03:00] Risks include cartilage damage, fractures, and rare joint collapse

[00:04:40] Cortisone shots near the shoulder linked to higher risk of rotator cuff tears

[00:06:14] More injections = higher risk of total joint replacements (especially knees)

[00:08:00] Injections into replaced joints can increase infection risk

[00:09:00] Systemic effects: blood sugar spikes, insomnia, flushing, elevated BP

[00:10:12] No “safe” number of injections—many studies show risk with just 1–2

[00:11:00] Safer options available

[00:13:40] Stacey’s personal story: Why she said no to the cortisone shot (and wrote her book)

[00:17:00] Why cortisone is still widely used

[00:22:06] Studies shows changes in biomechanics can reduce arthritis pain and slow progression

[00:24:02] If surgery is coming, when to avoid cortisone

[00:25:00] Strategic use may be okay but repeat use often backfires

Safety Reminders:

⚠️ Important: Cortisone injections carry risks including cartilage breakdown, rotator cuff tears, systemic side effects, and higher rates of joint replacement. Discuss all options with your provider. If surgery is planned, avoid injections within 3 months of the procedure. This information is for educational use only and is not considered medical advice. Always speak to your healthcare provider when making health related decisions.

Call us for noninvasive regenerative options

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References & Further Reading:

• AAOS Knee OA Guidelines (2021): Read Here
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• JAMA RCT on cartilage loss: PubMed
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• RSNA: Steroid injections worsen OA: RSNA Report
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• Shoulder steroid → tendon tear: PMC
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• Increased TKA risk: PubMed
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• Infection risk if <3 months before surgery: PubMed
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• Systemic effects post-injection: PMC
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• PRP vs. steroid injections (regenerative medicine commentary): Regenexx
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Important Links

• Pain-Free Formula Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pain-free-formula/id1802518411
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• Free eBooks - https://newyouhealthandwellness.com/ebooks
• Biomechanics: When Movement Matters
• Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Pain - The Gut Joint Axis: A Missing Link to Joint and Muscle Health
• Hormones: A Missing Piece in Pain Relief
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• Stacey’s Book on Amazon - https://www.amazon.ca/Pain-Free-Formula-Solving-Injections/dp/0998183717
• New You Health and Wellness Website - https://newyouhealthandwellness.com

About the Host

Stacey Roberts, PT, MBA, MSN, RN, is an Amazon bestselling author, physical therapist, registered nurse, and functional medicine specialist with 30+ years of experience. She founded and runs New You Health and Wellness in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Her program, detailed in her book, The Pain-Free Formula; Solving The Puzzle of Muscle and Joint Pain Without Surgery, Drugs or Injections, has helped thousands overcome chronic pain and reclaim their vitality.

The Pain-Free Formula Podcast is brought to you by Stacey Roberts. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Medical Disclaimer

Information in this program, as well as any information provided by New You Health and Wellness and its subsidiaries, is provided for informational purposes only. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by a licensed physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging that we supply. Do not use the information on this website or podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read or heard in this program. Information provided in this program and any other presented by New You Health and Wellness LLC, and the use of any products or services purchased from New You Health and Wellness LLC by you does not create a doctor-patient relationship or healthcare provider-patient relationship between you and any of the health professionals affiliated with our website or clinic. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Nothing stated or posted on this site or in this podcast or available through any services is intended to be and must not be taken to be the practice of medical or counseling care. For purposes of this agreement, the practice of medicine and counseling includes, without limitations, psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy or providing healthcare, treatment instructions, diagnosis, prognosis or advice.