Joint Injections: What Are They?
Frequently Asked Questions and Instructions
A: We offer two different types of joint injections. The first are Supartz injections, which are knee joint specific. More commonly, we have steroid injections available for all joints, from shoulders to hips to knees.
A: Supartz (sodium hyaluronate) is similar to the fluid that surrounds the joints in your body and acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joints. It is used to treat knee pain caused by eroded cartilage and/or osteoarthritis and is usually given when other treatments have not been effective.
A: While both injections provide pain relief, it’s delivered in different ways. The Supartz is specific to just the knee joint, and acts as a replacement for hyaluronic acid that may have dissipated over time. This allows the knee to function properly without bone scraping on cartilage and gives long lasting pain relief over time. The steroid injections are given at any joint in the body and give immediate relief from pain that can last up to a few months.
A: Both injections are given directly into the affected area and the needle used is relatively small, so while you can feel the injection being administered the benefits outweigh the temporary discomfort.
A: You will feel relief from pain and common arthritis-type symptoms typically immediately. If pain and swelling occur, we recommend resting and/or applying ice for a short time after your injection. It is also recommended not to overdo physical activity for 48 hours after treatment, to allow the medicine to take hold.
