Whether you suffer from arthritic joint pain or an injury, you may be wondering how joint pain injections can relieve pain. Well, this article is meant to answer that question.
Here’s what you should know about joint pain injections:
First, did you know there are different types of joint injections? Below, we will outline two separate injections performed by pain clinic physicians: 1. Steroid injections; 2. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
steroid injections
Common conditions treated with steroid injections are conditions that cause inflammation, such as arthritis and tendonitis. Steroids are very effective in treating inflammation in the body. It is usually preferred to give them by injection so that specific areas can be targeted.
Steroid injections can also reduce the risk of side effects from oral steroids.
The steroids used for joint injections are corticosteroids. They are different from the steroids used to build muscle (called anabolic steroids).
Steroid injections help the body produce additional natural corticosteroids in the body. The result is reduced stress and immune activity, which reduces inflammation.
Common diseases and conditions treated with steroid injections include:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- lupus
- multiple sclerosis
- irritable bowel syndrome
- osteoarthritis
- gout
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- plantar fasciitis
- sciatica
Injections can be given into a joint, muscle or tendon, spine, or bursa. The area may be sore for a few days after the injection, but it usually heals well. Relief of symptoms is usually felt within a few days.
It’s important to know that steroid injections are not a cure. Periodic repeat injections may be needed to maintain pain management.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
PRP injections can treat a variety of conditions, including tendinitis, muscle and tendon injuries, arthritic pain, and joint injuries. They are increasingly popular in the sports world for treating injuries in athletes!
The injection is derived from plasma, a substance found in the blood that is primarily composed of water and protein. Platelets play an important role in body healing.
Doctors will draw blood from the body and use a machine to separate it to collect the plasma. The injection site will then be anesthetized and the plasma will be injected into the target area.
Ultrasound may be used so doctors know they are targeting the correct area of injury or inflammation.
Once the plasma is injected into a specific area, it is free to begin the healing process. Plasma platelets break down and release growth factors, which repair and rejuvenate cells.
How long does PRP take?
The PRP injection procedure can usually be completed within 30 minutes. But it’s important to note that it can take several weeks for the injections to take effect and for any changes in pain to be noticed. As with steroid injections, this procedure may need to be repeated periodically for maintenance.
How Pain Care Specialists Assist with Injection Treatment
Florida Pain Care Specialists offers steroid and PRP injections for pain management at all locations, including:
We now offer telemedicine for pain management to patients in Florida. Contact us today to discuss injection options for joint pain or any other pain issue you may be experiencing. We are here for you!
The information contained on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice and does not substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
