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Intra Articular Injection Procedure in Dhakuria

Intra Articular Injection

Intra Articular Injection Procedure in Dhakuria

Joints are connections between bones that assist in mobility and provide support when you move. Cartilages are connective tissue that covers the surface of joints to prevent any friction between bones during movement. Various therapeutic interventions, including Intra-Articular Injections, commonly referred to as joint injections, are utilised by specialists to alleviate joint pain and improve function. If you are experiencing pain in a single joint due to injury or degeneration, Intra-Articular Injections offer significant relief, especially for pain that arises in the knee, hip, shoulder, ankle, sacroiliac, and facet (spine) joints.

Intra-articular injections not only provide therapeutic benefits but also aid in achieving an accurate diagnosis by extracting joint fluid for laboratory analysis, particularly when the source of pain is unclear. The procedure is referred to as ‘Joint Aspiration’ and helps in analysing cell count, crystal analysis (to determine whether the patient has calcium pyrophosphate deposition or gout), or culture (to identify infections in the joint). At Manipal Hospitals in Dhakuria, West Bengal, specialists and other medical professionals in the Department of Rheumatology ensure comprehensive care by evaluating every risk and benefit, including potential side effects, to tailor an effective therapeutic or diagnostic approach to each patient.

FAQ's

Some conditions that can be treated with Intra-Articular Injections include:

  • Joint-related conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or pseudogout, synovitis, and advanced osteoarthritis

  • Soft tissue conditions, which include bursitis, ganglion cysts, neuromas, fasciitis and entrapment syndromes

  • Certain infections in joints, such as fungal infections

  • Cancer affecting the joints

During your consultation with a rheumatologist, your symptoms and medical history are thoroughly assessed to see whether an injection is required to address your condition. It may be suggested that you undergo an ultrasound to determine the cause of the pain. If an Intra-Articular Injection is deemed necessary, our specialist will explain the procedure, including its potential risks and benefits. You can share your concerns or doubts if any with our specialist. You may also be required to sign an informed consent if you agree to the procedure.

General instructions you can follow before undergoing an Intra-Articular Injection include:

  • Informing our specialist of medications or supplements you are currently taking. You may be advised to stop any medicines before the procedure.

  • Notifying us of any allergies induced by certain medications, or if you are pregnant

  • Leaving all jewellery or wearable metallic objects before the procedure.

  • Refraining from having a heavy meal before the procedure

  • Discussing with our specialist the type of anaesthesia and the region to be administered. You may have to arrange your transportation to and from the hospital.

During the procedure, the region where the injection is advanced is cleansed thoroughly with strong agents to minimise any decontamination. Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the pain and alleviate any discomfort. Intra-articular injection is then performed in the region with the help of X-ray guidance, and the medication is delivered into the area. The needle is then removed and cleaned, followed by the application of bandages at the site. You may be asked to rest for 5 to 10 minutes and then be instructed to move the joint gently. Appropriate follow-up instructions are then given to you after the procedure. The entire procedure may take about 15-20 minutes, although this can vary depending on the condition and other individual factors.

Some medications that are usually administered in an Intra-Articular Injection include:

  • Corticosteroids 

  • Hyaluronic Acid

  • Local Anaesthetics, such as Botulinum Toxin

  • Chemotherapy Drugs like Doxorubicin and Immunotherapy drugs such as Infliximab

  • Radioisotopes

  • Saline

  • Prolotherapy, which involves a series of injections that are administered into the ligaments, tendons, or joints

  • Platelet-rich plasma

  • Autologous-conditioned serum/stem cell injections

Corticosteroids are usually not given more than once every three months. However, the duration of relief can vary. Corticosteroids are usually prescribed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, acute gout, and rheumatoid arthritis, especially in the knee. On the other hand, Hyaluronic Acid is administered as a series of shorts spanning over three to five weeks. This is mainly used as a temporary solution for individuals before undergoing Knee Replacement Surgery, and for those who can't tolerate steroids or haven’t found relief from oral medications.

Some of the risks or complications that may arise from an Intra-Articular Injection include:

  • Septic arthritis

  • Skin pigmentation

  • Atrophy

  • Site pain

  • Muscle pain and stiffness

  • Joint pain or injury

  • Redness, itching, or numbness

  • Anaphylaxis

  • Severe bleeding or haematoma

  • Development of calcium deposits in the joint and avascular necrosis

  • Increased blood sugar levels 

  • Sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate

Some post-care instructions usually given after undergoing an Intra-Articular Injection include:

  • Taking adequate rest for 1 - 2 days after the Intra-Articular Injection

  • Avoiding strenuous activity for 5 days

  • Applying ice or taking Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for the first 24 - 48 hours if you experience worsening of symptoms. Seek medication attention if it persists longer. 

  • Adhering to follow-ups scheduled by our specialist

  • Refraining from driving for a few days or until our specialist gives you a green light

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