Joint injection

Joint injection is a procedure used in the treatment of inflammatory joint conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, tendinitis, bursitis and occasionally osteoarthritis. A hypodermic needle is injected into the affected joint where it delivers a dose of any one of many anti-inflammatory agents, the most common of which are corticosteroids.

Procedure

The procedure of a joint injection typically involves the following steps:

1. The skin over the joint is cleaned using an antiseptic to minimize the risk of infection.
2. A local anesthetic may be used to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.
3. The needle is then inserted into the joint space.
4. The medication is then injected into the joint.

The procedure is usually quick and simple, although it can be slightly uncomfortable.

Uses

Joint injections are used to relieve pain and inflammation in the joints. They can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Gout
• Tendinitis
• Bursitis
• Occasionally Osteoarthritis

Risks and Complications

Like any medical procedure, joint injections can have risks and complications. These may include:

• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection anytime the skin is broken.
• Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding, especially for people who have bleeding disorders or are taking blood thinners.
• Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the medication used in the injection.
• Damage to the joint: There is a small risk of damage to the joint, especially if the procedure is done incorrectly.

See Also

• Arthritis
• Joint pain
• Inflammation

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