What are Bursa and Joint Injections?
Bursa and joint injections are minimally invasive procedures used to treat inflammation, pain, and stiffness in joints or bursae. These injections, often containing corticosteroids or local anesthetics, provide relief by reducing inflammation and improving joint function. They are commonly used for conditions like osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis.

Conditions Treated

• Osteoarthritis: Reduces inflammation and improves mobility.
• Tendinitis: Alleviates inflammation caused by repetitive stress or injury.
• Bursitis: Reduces pain and inflammation in affected bursae.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Temporarily manages autoimmune joint inflammation.
• Post-Surgical or Traumatic Pain: Relieves pain from surgery or injury.

Procedure

1. Preparation: Skin is cleaned, and local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
2. Imaging Guidance: Fluoroscopy or ultrasound is used for accurate needle placement.
3. Injection: Corticosteroids or anesthetics are injected directly into the joint or bursa.
4. Post-Procedure Monitoring: Brief observation for adverse reactions, with mild soreness or swelling common.

Benefits

• Pain Relief: Immediate relief allows for daily activities and therapy.
• Reduced Inflammation: Corticosteroids target inflammation, improving mobility.
• Minimally Invasive: Short recovery time with fewer complications than surgery.
• Diagnostic Value: Helps identify the source of pain.
• Improved Function: Pain relief enhances mobility and rehabilitation.

Risks and Considerations

• Temporary Pain: Mild discomfort at the injection site.
• Infection: Rare, minimized by sterile techniques.
• Bleeding: Higher risk in those with clotting issues or on blood thinners.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare allergic responses to medications.
• Joint Damage: Repeated injections may weaken tissues over time.

Effectiveness
The effectiveness varies by condition. Immediate pain relief from anesthetics and long-term inflammation reduction from corticosteroids can last weeks to months. Combining injections with physical therapy may improve long-term outcomes.

Conclusion
Bursa and joint injections offer a safe and effective way to manage pain and inflammation, improving function and quality of life. Consult a healthcare provider to see if these injections are right for your treatment plan.