Injections deliver medications directly into the tissues or joints that are causing you pain. Several rheumatological conditions can be treated effectively with musculoskeletal injections. The providers at Rheumatology Solutions routinely treat patients with injections, and in this post, we describe some of the conditions that may benefit from them.
This painful condition affects the thick band of tissue that runs from the base of your toes to the back of your heel, the plantar fascia. Over time, this tissue can endure microtears, or tiny injuries. You may feel as if you have a stone bruise in your heel, especially early in the morning when you first stand or upon standing after a period of inactivity.
A corticosteroid injection can help lower the inflammation and allow your plantar fascia time to heal. With less inflammation, you feel less pain and enjoy improved function.
Bursa are the small, fluid-filled sacs that aid in cushioning your joints. When your bursa become irritated, they can swell, and then there’s less room for your joints to move properly. It causes friction and pain.
The specific medicine your doctor injects depends on which bursa are swollen, your medical history, and other factors. Often a steroid is used in combination with an anesthetic. Musculoskeletal injections to treat bursitis may provide symptom relief for up to a year, and in some cases, one injection is enough to resolve the problem permanently.
The nerves that provide sensation to most of your fingers run through an opening in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. If that tunnel narrows because of injury, overuse, or a condition like rheumatoid arthritis, it can press on those important nerves causing pain and tingling.
We may suggest a corticosteroid injection to decrease the inflammation and swelling in your wrist, which may relieve your symptoms.
Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are quite different diseases, with different causes and outlooks; however, musculoskeletal injections may be part of the treatment plan for a person with either disease.
Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease. It occurs because of wear on your joints as you age. OA often affects the knee, and musculoskeletal injections may help ease your pain and reduce swelling. Results typically last from four to eight weeks.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system attacks the lining of your joints causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, and swelling. Musculoskeletal injections may help reduce inflammation and give you at least temporary relief from your symptoms.
If your doctor has suggested musculoskeletal injections as a part of your treatment plan, you may have questions. We encourage you to ask them. We’re happy to explain why we think injections may work for you, as well as what kinds of medications we suggest injecting.
Schedule your appointment today to learn more about musculoskeletal injections.
