Joint Injections with Dr Simon Hawe, Private GP

26th, Sep 2023

Dr Simon Hawe, NHS and Private GP holds clinics at our newer location within the Mid-Ulster Clinic in Magherafelt. This week he talks to us about joint injections, how they can relieve pain, what conditions can be managed and how long they last for.

I’ve got pain in a joint, can a doctor use an injection to help resolve it?

It's important to note that joint injections are not a cure-all and should be used judiciously. Their appropriateness and effectiveness may vary depending on the specific condition or injury being treated. They are typically recommended as part of a treatment plan that includes other conservative measures such as physical therapy, rest, and activity modification.

That being said, Joint injections can provide significant pain relief, allowing active people relief of symptoms to aid their rehabilitation without discomfort. They can be especially helpful for managing the conditions out lined below:

1. Osteoarthritis: Joint injections can be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, a        degenerative joint disease. Steroid injections can help reduce inflammation, while the local anaesthetic component provides temporary pain relief.

2. Rheumatoid arthritis: In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints, joint injections can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

3. Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. Steroid and local anaesthetic injections can be used to decrease inflammation and relieve pain in bursitis cases e.g. at the knee or shoulder

4. Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): Joint injections can be used as part of the treatment for frozen shoulder to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.

5. Gout: Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints. In some cases, joint injections may be recommended to manage acute gout attacks and alleviate pain.

It's worth noting that the appropriateness and effectiveness of joint injections may vary depending on the individual's condition and the severity of symptoms. If you have any of these symptoms or problems, it is worth consulting with a clinician who performs joint injections to see if they could help you in your recovery or the management of your condition. 

How long do joint injections last for?

The duration of the effects of joint injections can vary depending on several factors, including the specific medication used, the individual's response to the injection, and the underlying condition being treated. Joint injections typically contain both steroid and local anaesthetic.

1. Steroid injections: Steroids are used to reduce inflammation. The effects of a steroid injection can last anywhere from a few weeks to many months. However, it's important to note that the duration of relief may vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience longer-lasting benefits.

2. Local anaesthetic injections: Local anaesthetics are typically included in joint injections to provide immediate pain relief. The effects of a local anaesthetic injection are usually temporary and may last for a few hours up to a day or two.

It's important to keep in mind that joint injections often provide temporary relief and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, exercise, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Steroid injections can have side effects, especially if administered too frequently therefore they need to be used judiciously. It is best to book a consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in injecting who can provide personalized information based on your specific condition and management plan. 

Dr Simon Hawe, Private GP at the Mid Ulster Clinic in Magherafelt, part of Kingsbridge Private Hospital Group Private GP Clinics. Text BOOKGP to 66777 or call the clinic directly on 028 7966 8380 to book an appointment.
Visit kingsbridgeprivatehospital.com for further information.

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