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Pain relief, improved functionality, and improved overall health are all possible outcomes of using joint injections for arthritis symptom treatment. Proper diagnosis and conversations about your specific needs with a healthcare professional will be the best place to start. Your doctor can then formulate the best plan of action for you depending on your individual symptoms and other health factors. In the following post, we’ll explore the various types of joint injections available, giving you a better understanding of your options.
What is a Joint Injection?
Joint injections are a type of treatment utilised to reduce and manage both pain and inflammation in the joints. The injections, given directly into the joint, are divided into three main categories: corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and biologic medications.
Corticosteroids for Joint Injections
Corticosteroid injections, sometimes referred to as steroid injections, contain a synthetic version of the natural hormone cortisol which does several things in your body, including reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
These corticosteroid injections are most commonly used for treating inflammation and swelling caused by a wide range of conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), gout, and bursitis.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are another form of joint injections used to treat arthritis. This type of injection is becoming increasingly popular because it offers lasting effects. HA injections supplement and replace the natural hyaluronic acid within the joints, aiding lubrication and helping to reduce the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
Biologic Medications
Biologic medications, also known as biologic response modifiers, are genetically engineered proteins which are used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
These joint injections work by targeting specific areas within the immune system and helping to reduce inflammation.
Finding the Right Treatment Option
With so many types of joint injections available, it can be a daunting task to discern which option is right for you. The best approach to finding a treatment plan is consulting a healthcare professional such as a rheumatologistneurologist who can examine your individual needs and medical history to determine the treatment plan that is best for you.
By becoming more informed about the various types of joint injections available and speaking to healthcare professionals, you can become better equipped to find the right treatment option for your particular needs.
