Joint Injections Not Working? When It’s Time to Consider Surgery

Joint injections have become many patients’ go-to for joint pain relief, but over time, they can stop working like they used to. If this has recently happened to you and you’re starting to think about what’s next, you’re not alone. Our physicians at Joint Health Specialists are here to help you stay active and independent, whether that means finishing your weekend golf game, keeping up with the grandkids, or playing in the local rec league.

One of the most common questions we hear is: “How many injections can I have before I need surgery?”

And the answer isn’t that simple. It depends on things like what type of injections you’re getting, how long they last, and how much they’re improving your joint pain.

“It’s when they quit working altogether that it’s time to have the surgery discussion.” — Dr. Broome

How Long Should Injections Work?

Not all joint injections are the same, and how they work for each patient differs. If you’re getting 12 to 18 months of solid joint pain relief, that’s great. And often, we can safely repeat those injections as long as they continue to help.

But if you’re only getting a few weeks of relief, or no relief at all, it’s time to explore other options. Now, that doesn’t automatically mean surgery, but it does mean we need to take a closer look at what’s going on inside the joint.

Why Joint Injections Aren’t a One-Size-Fits-All Solution

At Joint Health Specialists, our joint injection experts use advanced injection therapies to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and preserve your joint health. These treatments are meant to support your body’s natural healing process, not just mask symptoms.

It’s important to remember that not every injection works the same way for every patient. While one patient might feel great after a PRP Injection, another patient might respond better to a different option, like a Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injection. That’s why we take time to understand your history, activity level, and more during your wellness exam before choosing the right solution.

For many patients, injections can delay and even help avoid joint replacement surgery altogether. Over time, your joints can change. If the pain starts coming back faster, or the injections aren’t helping at all, that may be a sign that the underlying damage has progressed.

That’s when it’s time for us to take a closer look and revisit your treatment plan. It’s always our goal to explore other options before surgery, but if it is the next step, you will already be in the hands of fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons who specialize in minimally invasive techniques designed to help you recover faster and get back to your active lifestyle.

When It's Time to Talk About A Joint Replacement

So, how do you know when that next step might be a joint replacement? We typically start that conversation when:

• Joint injections are offering little to no lasting relief.

• Your joint pain keeps you from doing everyday things.

• Your quality of life is decreasing.

We understand surgery can feel like a big step, but at SAOS, you’ll be in great hands. Our team of orthopedic experts is here to guide you through every part of the process, answer questions, and help you feel confident in your treatment plan. Many of our patients who once felt unsure about surgery are now thriving and back to doing what they love. You can hear one of their stories here. With advanced, minimally invasive techniques, many of our patients experience less pain, quicker recovery, and better long-term results.

What Are Your Next Steps?

If joint injections aren’t helping like they used to, it might be time to take a closer look. We may just need to make a small adjustment in your treatment plan, or it may be time to consider a different type of care.

That’s where a second opinion can make all the difference.

At San Antonio Orthopædic Specialists, we’re not here to immediately push you to surgery. We’re here to give you answers. Whether you need a new approach to joint preservation, a review of your X-rays, or guidance on whether surgery might actually give you a better quality of life, our team is ready to help you make the decision that is right for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle.

Don’t navigate joint pain alone; let our team help you get the clarity and the relief you’ve been looking for.

Are You Ready for the Next Step?

Joint pain shouldn’t keep you from enjoying your weekend golf game or chasing your grandkids around. That’s why we’re here to guide you with expert care, answers, and options that match your lifestyle and goals.

If your joint injections aren’t cutting it anymore, let’s figure out what’s next for you. Schedule your consultation with one of our experts today.