Joints, Bursa, and Tendon Sheath Injection

Introduction

Joint injections are a versatile and effective treatment option for patients suffering from pain and inflammation in various joints. They can provide significant relief, improve function, and enhance the quality of life for individuals with joint-related conditions. Our Pain Management Clinic specializes in administering joint injections targeting various areas, including knee joints, shoulder (glenohumeral and acromioclavicular), wrist/hand joints, hip joints, ankle/feet joints, temporomandibular joints, bursa injections for multiple bursae, as well as tendon sheath injections.

Clinical Presentation

Patients typically present with:

Knee Pain: Swelling, stiffness, decreased range of motion.
Shoulder Pain: Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back; localized tenderness.
Hip Pain: Groin pain that may radiate to the thigh or buttocks; limited mobility.
Ankle Pain: Swelling around the ankle joint; difficulty walking.
Feet Pain: Metatarsophalangeal joints pain: difficulty walking.
TMJ Pain: Temporomandibular joint pain causing TMJ syndrome, jaw pain, facial pain, and headaches.
Bursa-related Conditions: Localized swelling/tenderness over specific bursa (e.g., greater trochanteric bursa (hip), subacromial bursa (shoulder), and Pes anserine and prepatellar bursa (Knee).
Tendon-related Conditions: Localized swelling/tenderness over specific tendons (e.g., golfer's elbow or tennis elbow)

Indications for Injections

Injections are considered when conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medications have failed to alleviate symptoms.

Common indications include:

Osteoarthritis
Gout
Rheumatoid arthritis
Bursitis
Tendinitis
Acute injuries to ligaments or tendons

Therapeutic Benefits

The primary benefits of joint injections include:

Reduction in inflammation and pain.
Improvement in mobility/functionality of the affected joint.
Lower reliance on oral medications (e.g., NSAIDs).
Potential delay or avoidance of surgical interventions.

Medications Used

The types of medications used often vary based on individual conditions but generally include:

Corticosteroids: (e.g., methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone): For reducing inflammation rapidly.
Hyaluronic Acid Derivatives: To lubricate joints; often used for osteoarthritis management (Viscosupplementation).
Local Anesthetics: (e.g., lidocaine or bupivacaine): To provide immediate relief during procedures.
Platelet-Rich Plasma: As part of evolving regenerative medicine.

Frequency & Duration of Effects

Frequency of Injections

Joint injection frequency can vary based on individual response but is usually performed every 4–12 weeks as needed depending on the patient's need, and clinical judgment involved.

Duration of Relief

Duration relief experienced after injection varies per individual circumstances typically lasting several weeks up to several months! Monitoring effects periodically reassessing long-term effectiveness essential to maintaining optimal outcomes achieved.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you visit our clinic for a joint injection procedure:

Pre-procedure Consultation: You'll undergo an evaluation where your medical history will be reviewed along with imaging studies ensuring a tailored approach.
Preparation: The injection site will be cleaned thoroughly with an antiseptic solution to minimize the risk of infections.
Procedure: The procedure is performed under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance or ultrasound guidance that ensures precise needle placement and even distribution of the medicine. The joint injection can also be performed using a landmark approach in experienced hands.
Post-procedure Care: Following your injection you’ll receive instructions regarding activity restrictions, and potential signs of side effects or complications.

Possible Side Effects or Complications

While complications are rare, they can occur:

Infection at the injection site
Bleeding/hematoma formation
Nerve injury during needle placement
Temporary flare-up of symptoms post-injection known as "steroid flare" occurs occasionally, and usually resolves spontaneously within a few days

We are here to help you

At the Institute of Interventional Pain Management, we believe that everyone deserves to access effective treatments and lead healthier lives filled with joy & fulfillment. We are here to support you on your journey to a pain-free life.