Joint Injection

Joint Injection

Joint injection is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility in affected joints. The treatment involves the precise injection of therapeutic medications directly into the joint cavity, allowing targeted and fast-acting relief.

Joint injections are commonly used in the management of both acute and chronic joint conditions and are often part of a comprehensive orthopedic or rheumatologic treatment plan.

Purpose of Joint Injection

Joint injections are performed to:

reduce joint pain and inflammation;

improve joint mobility and function;

alleviate symptoms of degenerative and inflammatory joint diseases;

delay or avoid surgical intervention in certain cases;

enhance the effectiveness of physical therapy and rehabilitation.

By delivering medication directly to the affected area, joint injections provide localized treatment with minimal systemic side effects.

Conditions Treated with Joint Injections

Joint injections may be recommended for patients with:

osteoarthritis;

rheumatoid arthritis;

bursitis and tendinitis;

synovitis;

post-traumatic joint pain;

sports-related joint injuries;

degenerative joint disorders;

chronic joint stiffness or swelling.

Commonly treated joints include the knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, elbow, wrist, and small joints of the hands and feet.

Medications Used

Depending on the diagnosis and clinical indication, joint injections may include:

Corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation and pain;

Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) – to improve joint lubrication and cushioning;

Local anesthetics – for immediate pain relief and diagnostic purposes;

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or other regenerative therapies (if available).

The choice of medication is determined by the physician based on the patient’s condition, symptoms, and medical history.

How the Procedure Is Performed

The skin over the joint is thoroughly disinfected.

Local anesthesia may be applied for patient comfort.

Using anatomical landmarks or imaging guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy, if required), the physician inserts a thin needle into the joint space.

The medication is injected slowly and precisely.

The needle is removed, and a sterile dressing is applied.

The procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.

Benefits of Joint Injection

rapid pain relief;

targeted anti-inflammatory effect;

minimally invasive with no surgical incision;

short recovery time;

improvement in quality of life and daily function.

Many patients experience symptom relief within hours to days, with effects lasting from several weeks to several months, depending on the medication used and the underlying condition.

Preparation and Aftercare

Preparation:

No special preparation is usually required.

Patients should inform the physician about current medications, allergies, or bleeding disorders.

Aftercare:

Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site may occur temporarily.

Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous joint activity for 24–48 hours.

Normal daily activities can usually be resumed shortly after the procedure.

Safety and Risks

Joint injections are considered safe when performed by qualified medical professionals. Possible, though rare, risks include:

infection;

temporary pain or swelling;

allergic reaction;

bleeding or bruising at the injection site.

All procedures are performed under strict sterile conditions to minimize risks.

Results

After the procedure, patients receive:

post-procedure instructions;

recommendations for follow-up care or physical therapy, if needed;

a personalized treatment plan based on response to the injection.