What is an Intra-Articular Joint Injection?

Injections into joints are intra-articular injections. If you have a swollen or painful joint your doctor may inject a steroid medication into the joint. The radiologist may inject a local anesthetic (numbing medicine) along with the steroid. Intra-arrticular injections (arthrograms) are frequently performed prior to MRI and CT for specific indications.

Why Should I have an intra-articular steroid injection?

The steroid injection is given to decrease pain and swelling in the joint.

How long does it take the steroid injection to work and how long will it last?

It varies between people; improvement usually starts within 1 to 2 days. If helpful, the injection usually lasts from a few weeks to several months.

What is injected into my joint?

The steroid medications are related to cortisone, which is produced by the body itself.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are very unlikely. The joint may be sore for the first 24 hours after the injection. After that the joint normally settles. If the joint becomes more painful after this, please contact X-Ray Associates of New Mexico at 998-1317 as this could be a sign of infection (a very rare complication). A large number of injections into the same joint may cause damage to the joint.

Who will inject my joint?

A radiologist will perform the injection using fluoroscopy (x-ray) guidance.

How many injections can I have?

There is no firm limit to the number of injections. However, the effect tends to decrease with repeated injections. There could also be problems from a large number of injections into the same joint.

How often can I have an injection?

There is no firm rule about this, but your doctor will want to avoid repeating the injection more often than is necessary.

Do I need to do anything myself after the injection?

You should rest the joint after the injection for the first 24 hours, especially after the knee or ankle has been injected. You may return to normal activities after 24 hours.