Intrathecal Pump

A joint injection is the injection of local anesthetic (like Novocain) and anti-inflammatory steroid (not muscle building) into the joint that is thought to be involved with your pain syndrome. The local anesthetic numbs the joint, and may also numb and relax the muscles around the joint. The steroid can treat inflammation in and around the joint. There is a possibility that you may obtain sustained relief. If you achieve partial sustained relief following the first joint injection, then a series of injections may give you a greater degree of sustained relief.

You will be positioned appropriately for the injection. The joint area will then be cleansed with an antiseptic. The doctor will then insert a needle into the joint, and then inject the local anesthetic and steroid. The procedure will take about 20 minutes. A Band-Aid will be placed at the injection site, and the nurse will monitor your blood pressure and pulse. The nurse will review your discharge instructions with you before you go home.

As there are so many joints that can be injected, your doctor will provide you with the specifics regarding the joint injection you will have.

Your joint area will likely be numb and possibly weak for up to 24 hours. When the local anesthetic wears off, the pain may return. But, the steroid may take several days to work, and the pain may go away again

Tip:

In case of knees, injection of Hyalgan, which is not a steroid but rather like a lubricating fluid, can potentially result in significant pain reduction for many months and even up to a year. Your pain specialist can determine if you are a good candidate for this if you suffer from chronic knee pain.