What Is Chronic Joint Pain?
Chronic joint pain is persistent discomfort in one or more joints lasting longer than 3–6 months. It affects millions of Americans and is a leading cause of disability. The most commonly affected joints are the knees, hips, and shoulders.
Unlike acute joint pain from a recent injury, chronic joint pain often involves progressive tissue damage, inflammation, and changes to the joint structure itself.
Common Causes
- Osteoarthritis — the most common cause; cartilage breakdown over years of wear
- Rheumatoid arthritis — an autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation
- Post-traumatic arthritis — following injury, fracture, or surgery
- Bursitis and tendinopathy — inflammation of the joint's supporting structures
- Avascular necrosis — loss of blood supply to the bone
Treatment Options
Joint Injections (Corticosteroid)
Direct injection of anti-inflammatory steroid medication into the affected joint provides rapid, significant pain relief and reduces swelling. Suitable for hips, knees, shoulders, and other joints.
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Therapy
Dr. Rubin's preferred regenerative approach — using concentrated growth factors from your own blood to promote healing and reduce pain. PRP can provide pain relief lasting 3+ years in carefully selected patients.
Genicular Nerve Blocks & Ablation
For chronic knee pain, blocking or ablating the small nerves that transmit knee pain signals provides long-lasting relief without surgery.
Hyaluronic Acid (Viscosupplementation)
Lubrication injections that supplement the joint's natural fluid, reducing friction and pain in arthritic joints.
FAQs
What is the difference between a steroid injection and PRP? Steroid injections reduce inflammation quickly but typically provide temporary relief (weeks to months). PRP promotes tissue healing and can provide longer-lasting results.
Is PRP covered by insurance for joint pain? PRP is currently not covered by most insurance plans. Dr. Rubin will discuss costs and options during your consultation.
How many joint injections can I have? Steroid injections are typically limited to 3–4 per year per joint to prevent tissue damage. PRP does not have this limitation.
Call 516-492-3100 to discuss treatment for your joint pain.