🦴 Joint Injections: Patient Education

Before the Injection

  • Tell your provider about all medications (especially blood thinners or diabetes medications).

  • Report allergies (medications, anesthetics, latex).

  • Notify your provider if you have an infection, fever, or recent vaccination.

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing for easy access to the joint.

  • If sedation is planned, arrange for a ride home.

During the Injection

  • The skin will be cleaned with antiseptic.

  • A local anesthetic may be used to numb the area.

  • A thin needle is inserted into the joint and medication is injected (local anesthetic and/or steroid).

  • You may feel pressure or brief discomfort.

  • Procedure takes 10–20 minutes.

After the Injection

  • Expect temporary numbness or mild soreness at the site.

  • Apply ice packs to reduce discomfort (20 minutes on, 20 off).

  • Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.

  • Pain relief from steroids may take 2–5 days.

  • Monitor for red flags: severe pain, swelling, redness, fever, or allergic reaction.

  • Avoid soaking in baths, pools, or hot tubs for 24 hours.

  • Follow up in 2–4 weeks to assess pain relief.

💢 Trigger Point Injections: Patient Education

Before the Injection

  • Share your medication list and allergies with your provider.

  • Inform if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have active infection.

  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing to allow access to the muscle.

During the Injection

  • You will be positioned comfortably (sitting or lying).

  • The area is cleaned with antiseptic.

  • A thin needle is inserted directly into the trigger point (painful/tight muscle).

  • A small amount of local anesthetic or steroid is injected.

  • You may feel a brief "twitch" response or pressure during the injection.

  • The procedure usually takes 5–15 minutes.

After the Injection

  • Mild soreness or stiffness in the muscle is common.

  • Use ice or gentle stretching to ease discomfort.

  • Resume light activities as tolerated; avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.

  • Pain relief can be immediate (from anesthetic) or delayed by 2–3 days (from steroid).

  • Keep track of your pain relief and muscle function for follow-up.

  • Call your provider if you notice severe pain, swelling, redness, or fever.