Joint Injection

A joint injection involves placing medication directly into a joint to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It is commonly used for joints affected by arthritis, injury, or inflammation and can help improve mobility and function.

• Knee
• Shoulder
• Hip
• Elbow
• Wrist
• Ankle
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint
• Small joints of the hands or feet

• Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and pain
• Local anesthetics: Provide temporary numbing and immediate relief
• Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation): Helps lubricate joints (mainly knees)
• Biologics (e.g., PRP): Use your own blood components to promote healing (optional/advanced)

Joint injections may be recommended if you have:

• Osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
• Bursitis or tendinitis
• Joint swelling or stiffness
• Pain that hasn't improved with rest, medications, or physical therapy
• To help diagnose the source of joint pain

Tell your provider about:

• Any allergies, especially to medications or contrast dye
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• If you take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder

Additional Instructions:

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the joint
• You can usually eat and drink as normal

• The skin will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic
• A small needle is inserted into the joint using landmarks or ultrasound/fluoroscopy for guidance
• Medication is injected directly into the joint
• The procedure usually takes 5–15 minutes

What to Expect:

• Pain may improve immediately from the anesthetic; steroid effects usually begin in 2–5 days
• You may feel mild soreness or pressure at the injection site for 1–2 days
• Some fluid may be removed (joint aspiration) if there was swelling

Activity:

• Rest the joint for 24 hours
• Avoid strenuous activity or high-impact exercise for 1–2 days
• Gradually return to normal activity unless instructed otherwise