This page provides important information about joint injections. Please read this carefully before proceeding with the consent form.
Indications for joint injections
Joint injections may be used to treat the following conditions:
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Gout
- Osteoarthritis
- Trigger finger
The procedure
During the procedure, the skin over the joint will be thoroughly cleaned. A needle attached to a syringe will be inserted into the joint. At this stage, either:
- Joint fluid may be removed for laboratory testing, or
- Medication, usually corticosteroids, will be injected into the joint space to reduce inflammation.
This technique can also be applied to injections into a bursa or tendon for conditions like tendonitis and bursitis.
Joint injections are commonly used to treat inflammatory joint conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, and occasionally osteoarthritis. The injections help slow down inflammation by delivering anti-inflammatory agents into the joint space.
The joints commonly treated with injections include the knee, shoulder, ankle, elbow, and the smaller joints in the hands and feet.
Post-injection expectations
After the injection, you may experience a steroid flare, where pain and swelling in the joint may worsen temporarily before improving.
This is common and usually settles within a few days before the medication begins to relieve the symptoms.
It’s important to follow post-care instructions, including resting for 72 hours after the procedure to aid the healing process.
Benefits of joint injections
Joint injections may help reduce pain, swelling, and improve joint function. However, the relief is not guaranteed. The benefits of the injection will depend on your specific condition and response to treatment.
Risks of joint injections
Like all medical procedures, joint injections carry risks. Understanding these risks is important before proceeding with the treatment. Although rare, the following risks may occur:
- Allergic reaction to the medication or the cleaning solution used during the procedure.
- Infection (very rare)
- Post-injection flare – temporary joint swelling and pain that can occur several hours after the injection. This usually resolves within a few days.
- Joint damage may result from frequent corticosteroid injections, particularly if the same site is injected multiple times.
- De-pigmentation (whitening) of the skin at the injection site.
- Local fat atrophy (thinning of the skin) at the injection site.
- Rupture of the tendon if the needle is incorrectly placed during the injection.
- Pain during and after the procedure.
Alternatives to joint injections
If you prefer not to proceed with joint injections, there are other treatment options to consider:
- Oral anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen.
- Non-treatment – you may choose not to undergo any treatment at this time.
Please discuss these alternatives with your doctor to decide which treatment option is best for your situation.
Important information
- Rest for 72 hours after the injection to allow proper healing.
- Dr Rani will not be able to answer questions during the appointment due to the protective equipment she must wear. Please ensure all questions are submitted via the online form at least 24 hours before your appointment.
- The appointment time is limited and will only cover the joint injection. Dr Rani will not be able to discuss other conditions or treatments at this time.
Next steps
Once you’ve read the above information, please return to the Joint injection consent form to give your consent. Make sure to complete and return the form at least 24 hours before your appointment.