Ultrasound-Guided Joint Injection Clinic in Stoughton, MA

An ultrasound guided joint injection is an innovative and minimally invasive procedure that uses real-time ultrasound imaging to deliver medication with precision directly into a joint affected by inflammation.

The conditions this procedure mainly treats include arthritis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, and plantar fasciitis, among others. The process involves cleaning and numbing the target joint, using an ultrasound for visualization, guiding a thin needle to the joint, and injecting the medication carefully.

The advantage of using ultrasound guidance in this procedure is to ensure the accurate positioning of the needle. This accuracy ensures that the medication reaches the target area, maximizing its therapeutic effect and minimizing potential complications. This approach also reduces the need for multiple needle insertions, thereby reducing pain and tissue damage.

Please note that this procedure is not suitable for individuals with certain conditions, such as severe infection, bleeding disorders, or allergies to the injected medication. While this is generally safe, like any medical procedure, there are possible risks and side effects, such as infection, allergic reactions, bleeding, and increased pain.

The ultrasound-guided joint injection process usually takes less than 30 minutes. It is regarded as safe and effective because of the real-time guidance provided by the ultrasound. Patients often experience immediate pain relief due to the anesthetic, with the corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid providing more extended relief from inflammation in the following days.

Our skilled physicians use state-of-the-art ultrasound devices to guide the procedure. This imaging technology employs high-frequency sound waves to generate clear images of the body’s internal structures. A gel is applied to the skin, allowing the ultrasound probe to glide smoothly and provide the physician with the exact location for the injection.

Our experienced medical team ensures that our patients are comfortably positioned, usually lying down, for the procedure. We then clean the target joint area to prevent potential infection. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.

With the aid of the ultrasound images, a thin needle is precisely guided into the joint space. Our team continuously monitors the progress of the needle to ensure its accurate placement.

Once the needle is in the correct position, a therapeutic medication, typically a local anesthetic combined with a corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid, is injected. This medication helps to numb the area and reduce inflammation, providing relief from pain. The specific medication and its volume are tailored to the patient’s unique condition.

We carefully withdraw the needle, apply a bandage to the injection site, and provide an ice pack if needed. Our doctors then provide personalized aftercare instructions, which typically include rest and limited activity for a short period. Any temporary discomfort or bruising at the injection site is closely monitored.

The duration of relief can be influenced by many factors, including the severity of your joint condition, your individual response to treatment, and the frequency of injections. Our healthcare providers take all these factors into account to provide you with a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

At our clinic, we ensure regular check-ups and open discussions to closely monitor the effectiveness of your treatment. More than administering injections, we believe in a holistic approach to managing joint conditions. This often involves integrating the injections with other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy and lifestyle modifications.

Patients may experience varying recovery times. Most can typically expect to return to their normal activities within 24 to 48 hours. However, it’s normal to feel an increase in discomfort in the injected joint immediately after the procedure. This discomfort is a normal part of the recovery process and can be eased with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications.

The injected joint may feel stiffer than usual within the first few days. We recommend gentle exercises and stretching to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness. Gradually increasing your activity level as tolerated can also aid in recovery. However, if you experience severe pain, redness, or swelling, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider.

By the end of the first week, the majority of patients observe a noticeable improvement, and reduction in pain and inflammation. But remember, the full effects of the treatment may take several days to manifest and can be influenced by the extent of your joint condition and your overall health.

While ultrasound-guided joint injections can provide substantial relief, they’re not a cure for joint conditions. As such, you may need to have repeat injections every few months to maintain the benefits. During recovery, we advise avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the injected joint. Continuing any prescribed physical therapy or exercise regimens is crucial to improve joint function and strength.

At Centered Primary Care, we’re here to guide you through every step of the recovery process following an ultrasound-guided joint injection. Following our instructions and taking care of the injected joint is essential for a successful outcome. We are dedicated to your health and well-being and are always here to address any questions you have about your recovery. We serve patients from Stoughton MA, Avon MA, Canton MA, Walpole MA, Easton MA, Abington MA, and surrounding areas.