Procedure Description
Joint steroid injections, also known as intraarticular corticosteroid injections, are a minimally invasive treatment used to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling in joints affected by arthritis, injury, or overuse. These injections deliver a combination of corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication) and local anesthetic directly into the joint space, offering localized relief that can improve mobility and function.
This procedure can be performed in several joints, including the:
Shoulder
Elbow
Wrist
Hip
Knee
Ankle
Small joints of the hands and feet
What It Treats
Joint steroid injections are commonly used to treat:
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Bursitis or synovitis
Gout or pseudogout
Post-injury joint inflammation
Tendonitis (near joint involvement)
Labral or cartilage inflammation
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis
These injections are often used when oral medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes have not provided adequate relief.
How It Is Performed
You will be positioned so the affected joint is easily accessible.
The skin over the joint is cleaned and sterilized.
A local anesthetic may be used to numb the area.
Using anatomical landmarks or ultrasound guidance for precision, a thin needle is inserted into the joint.
A combination of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is injected into the joint space.
The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied.
The entire procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes and is done in an outpatient clinic setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
No fasting or special preparation is usually required.
Inform your provider if you:
Are taking blood thinners (you may need to pause them)
Have diabetes (as steroids can temporarily raise blood sugar)
Have allergies to steroids or local anesthetics
Have a current infection or open wound near the injection site
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the affected joint.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may experience temporary numbness or relief from the anesthetic immediately after the injection.
Steroid effects typically begin within 1–3 days and may continue to improve for up to a week.
Pain relief can last weeks to several months, depending on the condition and individual response.
Mild soreness or a flare in pain may occur for 24–48 hours post-injection—ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
You should avoid strenuous activity involving the joint for 24–48 hours.
Call your provider if you experience:
Signs of infection (fever, redness, swelling, warmth at the site)
Worsening pain or reduced joint mobility
Allergic reactions, though rare
Fast, Effective Relief for Joint Pain and Inflammation
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we provide precise, targeted joint steroid injections to help patients relieve joint pain, restore function, and return to daily activities. Whether your discomfort is from arthritis, overuse, or injury, this non-surgical treatment may be right for you.
👉 Schedule your appointment today to find out if joint steroid injections can help relieve your pain.