Corticosteroid and Hyaluronic Acid injection Birmingham

Coping with joint pain and injuries can be challenging and a frustrating experience. However, medical advancements have introduced effective treatments to help ease these conditions. Steroid injections and hyaluronic acid injections are two treatments that have become popular for relieving joint pain. Each works differently, providing relief based on the individual's needs and the specific condition.
 

Understanding Joint Injections:
 

• The Hyaluronic Acid Injeciton procedure involves the injection of a gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid directly into the affected joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps lubricate and cushion the joints. It can help reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and promote healing.
   

• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications injected straight into the affected joint. These injections use synthetic forms of the hormones normally produced by your adrenal glands, known as corticosteroids. Steroid injections decrease inflammation, relieve pain, and enhance joint function. They reduce the production of pro-inflammatory substances and suppress the body's inflammatory response. When injected into the joints, corticosteroids target the injured tissues and reduce swelling and irritation - resulting in pain relief for weeks to months.

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Conditions Treated by Steroid and Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Both treatments are being used to treat a wide range of joint injuries and soft tissue conditions.
 

• An age-related degenerative condition of the joints that mostly affects the big joints - including the knees, toes, ankles, hips, elbows, wrists, and shoulders.

• Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue in the foot.

• Peroneal Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the ankle.

• Iliotibial (IT) Band Friction Syndrome: Pain and inflammation on the outside of the knee.

• Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS): Hip pain due to inflammation of the tendons near the hip joint.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS): It causes compression of the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain and numbness in the hand.

• De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the thumb.

• Subacromial Pain Syndrome (SAPS): Shoulder pain due to inflammation or injury to the rotator cuff tendons.

• Frozen Shoulder: A condition causing stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint.
   

What to Expect from Steroid Injections and Hyaluronic Acid Treatment

When undergoing steroid or hyaluronic acid injections, you can expect the following:

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• Consultation and Assessment: Your healthcare provider will carefully assess your condition, medical history, and treatment goals to decide on the best treatment plan.

• Injection Procedure: The injection will be delivered directly into the affected joint. An injection may require the use of Ultrasound Imagery as a guided technique.  This guarantees the location of the injection delivery making it more effective in some cases.

• Post-Injection Care: You might feel temporary discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which can be alleviated with ice, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

• Rehabilitation and Follow-up: Your clinitian may suggest physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises to enhance the benefits of the injections and aid in restoring optimal joint function.

How Long Does the Effect of Steroid Injections and Hyaluronic Acid Last?

The effects of steroid and hyaluronic acid injections can last for different lengths of time, depending on factors such as the severity of your condition, the joint or area treated, and how your body responds to the treatment.

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• Steroid Injections: Following the injection, most patients notice a decrease in pain and inflammation within 24 to 48 hours. The effects of a steroid injection usually last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, with relief varying depending on the condition's severity, the injection site, and individual response.

• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Hyaluronic acid injections typically take a little longer to reach their full effect. Patients can expect improved joint mobility and pain relief within a few weeks. These injections usually provide longer-lasting results than steroid injections, often lasting between six months to a year, making them a popular option for individuals with chronic joint issues.

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*The effects of these treatments are temporary, and you may need multiple injections over time to maintain effective management of your condition.

*There may be side effects as with any medication but these are very rare, your clinical will discuss them with you before the procedure.

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Don’t let pain hold you back, contact us today to schedule a consultation.