Large Joint Injections in Alexandria, Virginia

Dealing with stiff joints can be excruciating since any sharp movement can trigger waves of pain. However, there are many countermeasures to cope with the condition, including steroid injections for both long- and short-term pain alleviation. These are some of the benefits and side effects of joint injections.

What Are Joint Injections?

A joint or steroid injection is used during a joint aspiration procedure. It treats joint disease by providing short-term relief to any joint space, including elbows, knees, wrists, or ankles. These injections comprise anti-inflammatory agents, such as methylprednisolone, triamcinolone, and local anesthesia to numb down the pain at the injection site.

There are various intra-articular (joint) injections, including corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma injections. These treatment options provide their unique merits and side effects if overused or incorrectly applied.

Corticosteroid Injections

These injections include a mixture of local anesthetic and steroids to help numb the pain and to treat severe inflammation in joints. Corticosteroid injections are not limited to any particular region and can be administered to small joints between the hands, wrist, spine, and ankle if necessary. These shots are commonly used to treat inflammation. Aside from that, corticosteroids can be used as treatment options for other ailments, such as gout, back pain, tendinitis, and and more.

The larger the dose, the higher the risk of experiencing cortisone or corticosteroid injection side effects, which include the following:

  • Nerve damage
  • Increase in blood sugar
  • Cartilage trauma
  • Joint infection
  • Whitening of skin at the injection site

Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections utilize the patient’s blood or plasma to accentuate the body’s healing factor by stimulating the joint’s cartilage.

Common side effects associated with PRP shots include acute soreness on the injection site, blood clotting, bruising or discoloration, and even infections if poorly administered.

How Long Do Joint Injections Typically Last?

Depending on the injection type, most can provide instant pain relief, but cortisone injections can take up to 48 hours for the patient to experience the effects. However, once an intra-articular injection has been administered, it can last a few days, months, or years in advance. While a joint injection can provide relief to any sore joint, coupling the medication with some exercise or physical therapy can improve the treatment’s potency.

Benefits of Large Joint Injections

  • Reduced Inflammation
  • Well-lubricated joints
  • Pain relief
  • Stimulation of the natural regrowth of damaged joint tissue
  • Versatility in treating other medical conditions
  • Lessened need for surgery

Visit a Doctor that Cares

Here at VA FamilyMed, your health is our priority. That’s why we are always available to help with your medical needs and queries. Visit our qualified team for immediate joint disease relief and professional medical assistance.