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The older people get, the more likely they are to experience issues with their joints. Arthritis or an injury can result in inflammation and pain. To combat this, doctors often recommend steroid joint injections. The guide below answers some natural questions you might have about this treatment.

A Brief Guide to Joint Injections

Who is eligible?

If you go to a doctor with joint pain, they are likely to recommend prescription medications or rest. However, joint injections may be the next step if this is not successful. Most people can receive this treatment, though it can pose some risks to those with diabetes or glaucoma. Certain variations of this procedure are not healthy for pregnant women, those with hemophilia, or anyone currently experiencing an infection.

What is the procedure like?

Treatment varies depending on the person and their condition. In some cases, a doctor will directly inject a solution containing triamcinolone, methylprednisolone, or dexamethasone into the inflamed area. The shot will also include a numbing agent to make you comfortable. In other instances, they will remove joint fluid first. This not only relieves tension in the joints, which can help with pain, but the fluid can also be examined to learn more about your condition. 

What should I do after treatment?

joint injections

While you should feel reasonably well after the procedure, ask someone to drive you home. In the following days, you may experience some soreness, which can be helped by placing ice on the joint and taking recommended pain relief medications. 

You should also rest. Avoid putting too much weight on the affected joint. Since this is most often your knee, avoid standing or bending for long periods. You should also prop up the limb that was treated with pillows or blankets when sitting or lying down. Your doctor should give you specific care instructions for the wound site. However, the general rule of thumb is to leave the bandage on for eight to 12 hours. 

When should I see a doctor next?

Seek immediate health care if you become feverish, develop swelling or redness at the injection site, or have more intense joint pain than usual for three days. 

Regardless, your doctor will schedule a follow-up to discuss your situation. Depending on the underlying condition that caused your problems, you may be able to pursue physical therapy and fully recover. However, you might also need joint injections again in a few months for continued relief. 

Doctors sometimes use this treatment as a diagnostic test. If you don't feel any better within a week of the process, the pain is likely not coming from the joint itself, so they can begin looking into alternatives.

 

If you need joint injections or other orthopedic help, reach out to Independence Healthcare, PC, in Soldotna, AK. This team of doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners treats and rehabilitates patients with a wide variety of musculoskeletal system conditions. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website. Call (907) 262-6454 to schedule an appointment.

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