TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Joint injections are a common and highly effective minimally invasive treatment for pain and inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis, bursitis, or injury. By delivering medication directly into the source of pain—such as the knee, hip, shoulder, or spinal joints—we can provide rapid relief, improve mobility, and help you return to the activities you enjoy.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
During a joint injection, you will be positioned comfortably to provide the best access to the target joint. The skin over the area is cleaned with an antiseptic, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the skin and the path for the needle, minimizing discomfort.
To ensure the highest level of accuracy and safety, we use advanced imaging—either fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or ultrasound—to guide the needle. This allows us to see the needle in real-time and confirm its precise placement directly inside the joint capsule, avoiding other important structures.
Once the needle is perfectly positioned, the medication is slowly injected. You may feel a sense of pressure or fullness. The medication typically includes a local anesthetic for immediate relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation over the long term. The needle is then removed, and a small bandage is applied.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
Joint injections are a powerful tool to break the cycle of pain and inflammation, providing the relief needed to improve function and engage more effectively in physical therapy.
Delivers a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly to the source of pain, providing faster and more effective relief than oral medications.
By reducing pain and inflammation, injections can significantly improve your joint's range of motion, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.
The immediate relief from the anesthetic can help your doctor confirm that a specific joint is the true source of your pain, ensuring an accurate treatment plan.
This is a quick, in-office procedure that allows you to avoid the risks, costs, and long recovery time associated with major joint surgery.
For knee arthritis, we can inject hyaluronic acid to lubricate and cushion the joint, helping to reduce pain and improve natural movement.
We also offer advanced orthobiologic treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) that use your body's own healing factors to repair tissue and provide lasting relief.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Image-guided joint injections are very safe procedures. Most side effects are mild, temporary, and resolve on their own within a couple of days. Serious complications are rare.
Important: The use of image guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) and sterile technique significantly minimizes the risks of complications like infection or misplaced injections.
PREPARATION GUIDE
Proper preparation is key to a successful and smooth procedure. Please review the following important steps to ensure you are ready for your appointment.
Ensure you have a thorough review with Dr. Fura. Disclose all allergies, especially to medications like contrast dye.
Stop blood thinners and other specific medications as instructed by Dr. Fura before your procedure.
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home afterward.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Avoid jewelry and leave valuables at home for safekeeping.
RECOVERY GUIDE
Recovery is simple and focuses on taking it easy for a day or two to allow the medication to begin working effectively on reducing inflammation.
Rest the treated joint and avoid any strenuous activity. You can apply ice packs for 20 minutes at a time to reduce soreness. The joint may feel better immediately due to the anesthetic.
The local anesthetic will wear off, and your original pain may temporarily return or even increase slightly. This is a normal "cortisone flare." Continue to rest the joint.
The corticosteroid will begin to take full effect. You should notice a gradual but significant decrease in pain and inflammation. You can slowly return to your normal activities.
A follow-up visit will be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the injection. The goal is to use this window of pain relief to make progress in physical therapy and improve long-term function.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.