A joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a medication into a joint. Medications that are commonly used for joint injections include:
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can help to reduce pain and swelling in the joint.
- Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally found in the joint fluid. It helps to lubricate and cushion the joint. Injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint can help to improve pain relief and function.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): PRP is a blood product that contains a high concentration of platelets. Platelets are small blood cells that contain growth factors that can help to heal damaged tissues. Injecting PRP into the joint can help to reduce pain and improve function.
Joint injections are used to treat a variety of joint conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to break down. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint.
- Other joint conditions: Joint injections may also be used to treat other joint conditions, such as bursitis, tendinitis, and gout.
How is a joint injection performed?
Joint injections are typically performed in an outpatient setting. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes to complete.
Before the procedure, the patient asked to lie down on a table. The area around the injection site is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
The doctor then uses a needle to inject the medication into the joint. The needle may be guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure that it's placed correctly.
What are the benefits of a joint injection?
Joint injections can provide several benefits, including:
- Pain relief: Joint injections can provide significant pain relief for people with joint pain.
- Improved function: Joint injections can help to improve joint function and mobility.
- Reduced need for other treatments: Joint injections can help to reduce the need for other treatments, such as surgery.
What are the risks of a joint injection?
Joint injections are generally safe procedures. However, there are some potential risks, such as:
- Infection: Infection can occur if the injection site is not properly sterilized.
- Bleeding: Bleeding can occur if the needle damages a blood vessel.
- Nerve damage: Nerve damage can occur if the needle is not placed correctly.
- Allergic reaction: There is a small risk of allergic reaction to the medication that is injected.
What to expect after a joint injection
After a joint injection, patients may experience some temporary discomfort at the injection site. They may also experience some temporary swelling and redness at the injection site.
Patients should avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after the procedure. They should also avoid taking any blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin, for 24 hours after the procedure.
Most people experience significant pain relief within a few days of having a joint injection. The pain relief may last for several weeks or months.
Conclusion
Joint injections can be an effective treatment for a variety of joint conditions. They are generally safe procedures with few risks.
If you experience chronic joint pain and would like to know if joint injections are right for you, make an appointment with us. We'll perform a full evaluation and create a treatment program for your unique situation.
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