Peripheral Joint Injections

Peripheral joint injections are injections that are administered into the joints of the extremities, including the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and hands and feet. The ultrasound guided joint injections assist in the diagnosis and treatment of joint pain and inflammation, as well as mobility enhancement.

Dr. Abraham, board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist at New England Advanced Spine and Pain Center for regenerative medicine, recommends peripheral joint injections if you have severe joint pain that does not respond to conservative treatment such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication, and are unwilling or unable to have surgery.

• Arthritis: relief from the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Bursitis: the alleviation of pain and edema in the bursa, which are small sacs filled with fluid that serve as cushions for joints.

• Inflammation: specific alleviation for conditions that induce joint inflammation, including pseudogout or gout attacks.

• Injuries: management of pain associated with joint injuries, including sprains and strains.

Corticosteroid injections are administered to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms by decreasing inflammation in the affected joint. A corticosteroid may also be combined with a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.

Hyaluronic acid is a shock absorber and lubricant that is naturally present in joint fluid. This substance can be depleted as a consequence of osteoarthritis, leading to a reduction in joint lubrication and an increase in friction. Hyaluronic acid injections offer a natural supplement that allows the joint to function efficiently. Hyaluronic acid knee injection is typically selected for the knee joint and is FDA-approved. Injections of hyaluronic acid also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may even stimulate the production of natural hyaluronic acid in the knee. If successful, the hyaluronic acid injections can be repeated every six months.

The platelet-rich fluid used in this injection is made from your own blood. Numerous growth factors are present in platelets, which facilitate the healing process. Research shows that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may reduce inflammation.

Consult with Dr. Abraham, board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist, to determine the most appropriate injection for your condition.

Hip injections reduce hip joint pain and inflammation. A hip injection for arthritis can help with pain, swelling, and stiffness in the hip joint through administering local anesthetics and corticosteroids directly into or around the joint. 

Hip injections can help with pain resulting from injuries, bursitis, and arthritis. This treatment not only relieves pain but also improves joint function, which leads to more mobility and a better quality of life.

A corticosteroid and a local anesthetic are injected into the shoulder joint to help with pain and swelling. People often utilize the shoulder joint injection procedure to address conditions like frozen shoulder, bursitis, rotator cuff injuries, and arthritis.  

The costochondral injections treat chest wall pain by injecting a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid into the costochrondral joint, where the rib connects to the sternum. This injection reduces inflammation and provides pain relief for costochondritis or arthritis cases.  

The knee joint is susceptible to overuse and damage since it bears the weight of our bodies during a variety of motions. Knee joint injection is a minimally invasive method of reducing inflammation, alleviating knee pain, and restoring range of motion. Knee joint injections are most frequently used to treat joint damage and chronic arthritis.

More mobility and a more active, healthy lifestyle can be achieved through corticosteroid injections knee, which can provide substantial pain relief.

The joint pain relief injections usually include the following steps:

1. Dr. Abraham marks the injection site by drawing a few lines on the skin.

2. An antiseptic is applied to the injection site to cleanse the skin.

3. Dr. Abraham inserts the needle into the soft tissue and advances toward the joint. The substance is administered through an injection into the joint.

4. Dr. Abraham accurately injects the medications into the joint with the assistance of imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound.

5. The injection site is typically covered with a band-aid.
6.     The peripheral joint injection procedure usually takes 10 -20 minutes.

The local anesthetic administered with a corticosteroid injection will provide immediate alleviation for a few hours. After this subsides, your joint may experience discomfort for approximately three to five days. The injection site may be treated with ice. Strenuous activity should be avoided for one or two days, but it is generally possible to return to work the following day. The corticosteroid's effects are more gradual and persistent.

The efficacy of joint injections may last for several weeks to six months or more. A single treatment plan may include one or more injection sessions administered over several weeks. If necessary, Dr. Abraham schedules the additional sessions.

Peripheral joint injections are effective in a significant number of patients, but a few may experience pain, infection, or an allergic reaction.

The repetition of corticosteroid injections over an extended period can lead to cartilage breakdown; therefore, Dr. Abraham will restrict the quantity of injections you receive. They are also known to elevate blood glucose levels and may not be suitable for diabetic patients. Hyaluronic acid is a superior alternative for this category.

When considering treatment options for chronic joint pain, understanding the cost of joint injections and the effectiveness of joint injections versus surgery is essential. In many cases, joint injections for osteoarthritis offer a safer, less invasive, and more affordable alternative that provides significant pain relief and improved mobility without the downtime or risks of surgical procedures. 

Choosing the right injection technique can help restore joint function, delay the need for surgery, and support long-term joint health. For personalized assessment and precise care, consult Dr. Abraham, the best doctor for joint injections, to determine the most effective treatment plan for your condition.