Joint Injections
- Sacroiliac Joint Injections
- Major Joint Injections – hips, knees, shoulders
- Small Joint Injections
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Injections
There are many types of joint injections, tailored to the specific joint causing pain. Some, like sacroiliac (SI) joint injections and hip injections, are done under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance for the best precision. These injections combine a local anesthetic and steroid to help reduce inflammation, ease pain, and improve mobility.
When used properly, steroids are a safe and effective treatment option. That said, we understand some people may have concerns due to misleading information or marketing of pricier alternatives. For patients seeking other options, we also offer platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and prolotherapy. Among these, prolotherapy is often the most effective choice for managing pain and promoting healing.
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Injections
SI joint injections are a specific type of joint injection designed to relieve pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs caused by inflammation or dysfunction in the sacroiliac joint. This is the joint between the base of the spine and hips.
This procedure delivers medication directly into the sacroiliac joint to calm inflammation and provide relief. It’s often used both to diagnose the source of pain and to provide lasting pain relief. Spine surgeons may request this injection before surgery to help pinpoint the affected area for treatment.
If you would like to explore if these treatments are right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you find relief and get back to doing what you love!
When to Expect Relief and How Long It Lasts
The steroid begins to take effect immediately as well but takes about 3-7 days to reach its maximum effect. It lasts between 3-6 months. The goal is to use this time to begin a rehabilitation and exercise program to keep the pain from coming back.
Is Sedation Available?
This is a minor, low risk procedure that typically does not require sedation and can easily be done with just local anesthetic. For those patients who prefer sedation, we offer sedation both in the office and in the surgery center.
Instructions Before the Procedure
2. Please let us know if there are any changes to your health, such as a new pregnancy, or if you start antibiotics before your procedure.
3. If you choose sedation in our office, plan for a friend or family member to drive you home afterward. They are welcome to wait in our comfortable waiting area during your procedure, or you can call them when you are ready to leave.
4. If you are going to have sedation in the surgery center or hospital, we will provide additional instructions.
Instructions After the Procedure
- Take it easy on the day of your procedure. You can return to your regular activities the following day.
- Avoid operating heavy or potentially dangerous equipment on the day of your procedure.
- If you had sedation, plan to avoid driving for the rest of the day.
Alcohol: If you received sedation, please skip alcohol for the rest of the day.
Dressings: You can gently remove any adhesive bandages, like Band-Aids®, the day after your procedure.
Blood Thinners: You can restart your blood thinners the day after your procedure unless we have advised you otherwise.
Comfort at the Injection Site: It’s normal to feel some mild discomfort where you received the injection. Applying ice can help ease the soreness—just remember to wrap the ice in a cloth and avoid placing it directly on your skin. Refrain from using heat on the injection site on the day of your procedure.