Joint Injections
Joint injections are a procedure designed to alleviate pain and discomfort in various joints throughout the body.
These injections are particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, or joint injuries.
The process involves the precise delivery of medication, often a combination of corticosteroids and local anesthetics, directly into the affected joint. Joint injections can serve both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, helping to pinpoint the source of pain while providing temporary or, in some cases, long-lasting relief.
Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic joint pain or looking to identify the cause of your discomfort, joint injections may be an essential component of your healthcare plan.
Joint injections are typically administered in an outpatient setting.
After positioning you comfortably, the healthcare provider cleans and sterilizes the skin over the targeted joint area. To ensure your comfort during the procedure, a local anesthetic may be applied to numb the skin and surrounding tissues. Using guidance such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), a thin needle is carefully inserted into the affected joint. Once the needle is correctly placed, a mixture of medication, which usually includes a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and a local anesthetic for immediate pain relief, is injected into the joint space. This medication helps to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. The entire procedure is typically brief and minimally invasive, and patients can often return to their normal activities shortly after.
Following joint injections, it’s essential to follow specific post-treatment care guidelines to maximize the benefits of the procedure while minimizing potential side effects.
In the immediate aftermath, you may experience some relief from the local anesthetic, but it’s important to note that the full therapeutic effects of the corticosteroid may take a few days to become apparent. It’s generally advisable to take it easy for a day or two, avoiding strenuous activities or putting undue stress on the treated joint. Applying ice to the injection site can help reduce any mild discomfort or swelling.
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to assess your response to the injection and determine the next steps in your treatment plan.
The choice to use joint injections will depend on your underlying condition, the joint involved, and your overall health. Our team is here to help you determine whether joint injections are an appropriate treatment option based on your specific circumstances.
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