Riverside Orthopaedics Services

Aging Joints

We'll help keep you active at any age.

Just Play

We'll take care of the rest.

Ankle and Foot Services

Orthopedic Services

Injections

When home care has not relieved your pain and inflammation, your doctor may recommend joint injections or shots. Shots typically include a corticosteroid medication or a viscosupplementation such as supartz, hylogen or synvisc, and a local anesthetic to provide immediate pain relief.

What to expect

Shots are usually given in your doctor's office.Once the joint area has been cleaned, a local anesthetic will numb the injection site. Then a needle is inserted into the joint and the medication is released. Because of the local anesthetic, you shouldn't feel anything more than some pressure in the joint as the needle is inserted.

After your shot

You can go about your day with some limitations although you may have some mild pain or stiffness. Your doctor may ask that you protect the injection area for a day or two and that you stay off your foot as much as possible. You should apply ice as needed to relieve pain.

Pain

Injections commonly cause a temporary flare in pain and inflammation for up to 48 hours after the shot. After that, you should experience decreased pain and inflammation. If the pain and swelling continue from more than 48 hours, call your doctor.