Office Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, Monday - Friday
Call Us: (604) 249-4145
Office Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM, Monday - Friday
Call Us: (604) 249-4145
Ketorolac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that offers a rapid and effective solution for managing acute flare-ups of pain and inflammation. Similar to corticosteroids, Ketorolac provides quick relief for both soft tissue and intra-articular joint pain. Recent studies have shown that Ketorolac is comparable in efficacy to corticosteroids for treating pain in these areas, with the added benefit of not having the osteonecrotic effects commonly associated with steroid injections. This makes it an excellent alternative for patients who are averse to corticosteroids or have concerns about long-term steroid use.
However, Ketorolac does come with specific considerations. It is not recommended for patients with kidney function limitations or heart problems due to potential risks associated with these conditions. As a result, these injections are offered only when deemed appropriate by our providers.
While Ketorolac injections have shown good short-term results, they are still in the early phases of clinical use, and long-term outcomes are not yet fully established. Therefore, while it can be highly effective for acute pain relief, it is generally not considered a first-line treatment.
Cortisone injections are a widely used treatment for reducing inflammation and relieving pain in joints and soft tissues. As a potent anti-inflammatory, cortisone acts much like a “fire extinguisher,” quickly calming areas of irritation and swelling—making it especially effective for acute flare-ups. These injections can be used both intra-articularly (within a joint) and for soft tissue or tendon-related conditions, helping to restore comfort and mobility.
Patients can typically expect relief lasting approximately 3–4 months, with onset of relief around 48-72 hours post injection, though this can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Cortisone injections are most often used for short-term management of acute symptoms rather than long-term, repeated use. While generally safe, potential side effects may include a brief, temporary increase in blood pressure or blood sugar levels, and there are considerations around cartilage health with frequent or long-term use. In most cases, injections are performed using anatomical (landmark) guidance, though ultrasound guidance may be used when greater precision is required.
We are committed to providing safe and effective treatment options that comply with all relevant regulations, and we continue to monitor advancements in regenerative medicine for future possibilities.