Joint Injections

When medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes can’t ease pain or inflammation in your joints, joint injections may offer effective relief. The experienced orthopedic surgeons at Anchor Spine & Joint administer joint injections to deliver targeted healing and ease pain. If you struggle with joint pain, call the nearest office in Tampa, Riverview, Odessa, Pinellas Park, or Lutz, Florida, or click the online scheduler to book an appointment today.

What are joint injections?

When you have ongoing joint pain, joint injections are shots that administer medication directly into a joint space. They reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility, and they’re a quick and effective treatment that your provider can customize to your needs.

What types of joint injections are there?

Depending on your pain and underlying health concerns, your injection may include:

Corticosteroids

These potent anti-inflammatory drugs reduce swelling and pain.

Hyaluronic acid

If you have osteoarthritis, this gel-like substance acts as a lubricant for stiff, painful joints.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

PRP gets extracted from a concentration of your own platelets and uses natural growth factors to promote healing.

Local anesthetics

When you need quick, temporary pain relief, local anesthetics may be part of your injection.

Can I benefit from joint injections?

Your provider can administer joint injections to treat persistent joint pain, inflammation, or reduced range of motion that hasn't improved with conservative treatments. Conditions that often respond well to joint injections include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Injury-related joint pain

Your provider can also use joint injections to pinpoint the origin of your pain.

What happens during joint injections?

Initially, your provider assesses your medical history and may order imaging ( X-rays or MRIs) to determine the best approach. They may recommend that you temporarily stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners.

During your joint injection, you relax as your provider cleans the injection site and then injects the area with a thin needle. You may feel pressure or discomfort, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated and typically takes about 30 minutes.

Afterward, you can go home and relax. Some mild soreness or swelling at the injection site is normal and typically resolves within a couple of days. Rest the joint for 24-48 hours and avoid strenuous activity.

Whether dealing with arthritis, a sports injury, or chronic joint discomfort, the Anchor Spine & Joint team aims to help you reduce pain and restore function. If joint pain is interfering with your quality of life, joint injections at Anchor Spine & Joint may help. To get started, call the nearest office today or book your consultation online.