What conditions can joint injections help?
Joint injections are often used when pain and swelling have not improved enough with rest, ice, exercise or pain relievers. They are not a cure for arthritis, but they may calm a painful flare and make it easier to stay active and do strengthening exercises. They may help with:
- Osteoarthritis of the knee, shoulder or hip
- Bursitis, which is swelling of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion a joint
- Tendon problems, such as some types of shoulder pain
- Flare-ups of other types of arthritis
How long does a joint injection last?
Relief is different for everyone. Some people feel better within a few days, and the effect may last from several weeks to a few months. Because repeated steroid injections can affect the joint over time, there are limits on how often the same joint can be injected. Dr. Le will talk with you about how injections fit into your overall plan.
An injection works best alongside other care, such as exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and staying at a healthy weight.
Are joint injections safe?
Joint injections are a common, low-risk procedure. Possible side effects include short-term soreness at the injection site, a brief increase in pain, skin changes where the shot was given, and a temporary rise in blood sugar in people with diabetes. Infection is rare. Tell Dr. Le if you take blood thinners or have diabetes, so he can plan your care.
Why get joint injections from your family doctor?
At Westwood Family Medicine in Bluefield, Dr. Le gives knee, shoulder and hip injections right in the office. That means fewer trips and no wait for a separate specialist visit in many cases. He refers you to an orthopedic specialist if your joint needs further care, such as when pain keeps coming back quickly or a joint replacement may need to be considered. Follow-up visits help track how well each injection works so your plan can be adjusted over time.
How do I prepare for a joint injection?
Preparing is usually simple. Wear loose clothing that makes it easy to reach your knee, shoulder or hip. Bring a list of your medicines, and let us know ahead of time if you take a blood thinner, have diabetes, have an allergy to any medicine, or have a fever or skin infection near the joint. You can usually eat normally before your visit.
What to expect at your visit
- Dr. Le examines the joint and confirms that an injection is a good option for you.
- The skin is cleaned well, and a numbing medicine may be used.
- The medicine is injected into or near the joint. This usually takes only a few minutes.
- You can usually go home right away. Rest the joint for a day or two and follow any aftercare instructions.
Common questions about joint injections
Do joint injections hurt?
Most people feel a quick pinch and some pressure. A numbing medicine is often used to make the injection more comfortable. The joint may be sore for a day or two afterward. Ice and rest usually help, and your doctor will tell you which pain relievers are safe to use.
How often can I get a cortisone shot in my knee?
Doctors usually limit steroid injections in the same joint to a few times per year, because frequent injections may affect the joint over time. The right schedule depends on your condition and how long relief lasts. Dr. Le will help you decide what is safe for you.
Can I drive home after a joint injection?
Most people can drive home after a knee, shoulder or hip injection. If a numbing medicine makes your leg or arm feel weak for a short time, you may want someone else to drive. Ask Dr. Le at your visit if you are unsure.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.