What are joint injections?

Joint injections administer prescription-strength pain medication (or regenerative medicine) through a needle and into a vein. Specifically, they relieve pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by health problems like arthritis, sports injuries, or repetitive strain.

Joint injections are minimally invasive and require very little downtime. What’s more, they present few risks, making them safe for almost anyone.

What are the types of joint injections?

At Trident Pain Management, the team offers several types of joint injections, including:

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are medications formulated to relieve pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections contain a steroid and a numbing agent. Your provider administers the injection directly into the joint (or joints), causing you discomfort.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance that lubricates your joints. HA injections replace the joint fluid lost to general wear-and-tear caused by osteoarthritis. The team at Trident Pain Management typically recommends a series of injections every three to five weeks.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments

PRP is a type of regenerative medicine. During PRP treatment, your provider draws a sample of your blood and puts it in a centrifuge. The centrifuge separates growth factors (platelets) from the rest of your blood.

When the PRP solution is ready, your provider injects it into an injured or diseased joint. PRP increases circulation to the area and encourages your body’s natural healing process.

Stem cell therapy

Stem cell therapy involves your provider administering an injection of stem cells into an injured or diseased joint. Stem cells are unique in that they can transform into any other type of cell in the body. Once injected, stem cells promote the creation of new, healthy tissue, reducing pain and encouraging mobility.

Will joint injections benefit me?

Only a qualified pain management specialist, like those at Trident Pain Management, can determine if joint injections might benefit you. Following a discussion of your symptoms, a review of your medical history, and a physical exam, the team can make recommendations that align with your needs.

Usually, the team recommends conservative measures of care, like physical therapy, rest, or ice and heat first. If your symptoms persist, you likely qualify.

To see if you can benefit from joint injections, make an appointment at Trident Pain Management by calling the office today, or scheduling online.