Joint Injections for Back Pain at Life Medical Imaging Central Coast
Joint Injection Procedures for Treating Inflammatory Joint Conditions
Life Medical Imaging has a particular interest in the treatment of back pain, whether it be cervical (upper), thoracic (middle) or lumbar (lower) spine. Pain at the base of the spine (sacrum and coccyx) is a common complaint and can also be treated.
An image guided lumbar epidural corticosteroid injection is the accurate placement of a very thin needle, at a given level in this space, under guidance with computed tomography (CT) or X-ray images or pictures to inject corticosteroid (or ‘steroid’) and usually a long-acting local anaesthetic.
As you will be lying on your stomach during the procedure and will be uncomfortable if your stomach is too full, it is advisable to limit food intake to a light meal only, up to 2 hours before the procedure.
It is recommended that you do not drink anything in the 2 hours before the procedure, and you should go to the toilet right before you have the procedure. This is because the local anaesthetic used for this procedure can mean you will not feel your bladder filling as you normally do. This will wear off within an hour or two.
You should wear comfortable clothes that are easy to remove and leave jewellery at home. Please note that some of the disinfectant agents used during these procedures may stain light-coloured clothing. When you make your appointment for the image guided lumbar epidural injection, you need to let the radiology clinic or department know if you are taking any blood thinning medication, such as warfarin, clopidogrel, dabigatran, prasugrel, dipyridamole or asasantin.
Blood thinning medications may need to be stopped for a period of days, or your normal dose reduced, before this procedure is carried out. It is very important that you do not stop any of these medications or change the dose without consulting the radiology clinic and your own doctor. They will give you specific instructions about when to stop and restart the medication. These drugs are usually prescribed to prevent stroke or heart attack, so it is very important that you do not stop taking them without being instructed to do so by your doctor or the radiology practice, or both. Aspirin is usually not stopped.
A blood test may be required to check your blood clotting on the day of the procedure.
Continue with pain medication and other medications as usual.
If you have problems lying on your stomach, please advise the practice or hospital when you make your appointment, as this can make the procedure difficult and the radiologist (specialist doctor) carrying out the procedure needs to be made aware of this.
You may be monitored by nursing staff while you lie in a bed in the observation ward for approximately 2 hours before you are allowed to leave.
You will need to have someone take you home, because you are not allowed to drive immediately after the procedure.
You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and leave your belongings in a locker.
You will then be asked to lie on a table on your stomach and this table will either be in the CT scanning room or in a fluoroscopy suite. In both cases, there is equipment over or around the table that allows the radiologist to use X-rays to guide the needle placement. The table will have a thin foam mattress on it and you will have a pillow for your head.
A metal marker will be taped on the skin of your lower back and images or pictures on the fluoroscopy equipment or the CT scanner will be used to adjust the position of this marker so that it is at the correct level for the injection. The skin will be marked with a pen or felt marker to indicate where the needle will enter the skin and the metal marker will then be taken away.
The skin is cleaned with an antiseptic and a drape may be placed on your back. A local anaesthetic injection is used to numb the skin and deeper tissues. This is uncomfortable for a few seconds, producing a pin prick and a stinging sensation. You will be awake and only the area where the lumbar epidural injection is being carried out will be numb.
When the skin and muscles are numb, a thin spinal needle is then guided into the spinal canal and into the epidural space. The placement of the needle in the epidural space is checked by the radiologist by injecting contrast medium (X-ray dye) or air. Contrast medium enables the CT to show the area inside the body where the procedure is being carried out more clearly on the images.
Once it is confirmed that the needle is in the correct position, a mixture of corticosteroid and (in some radiology practices/hospitals) a long acting anaesthetic is/are then injected. The pressure of the injection may momentarily increase the pain, but this is generally quickly relieved as the local anaesthetic takes effect.
Joint injections might cause temporary mild pain and discomfort, as the pressure of the injection may momentarily increase the pain. However, this is generally quickly relieved as the local anaesthetic takes effect.
Like any treatment, joint injections carry certain risks and side effects. Most are mild or temporary, but some can be long-lasting. Side effects can include: Cartilage damage. Joint infection. Nerve damage. Temporary facial flushing. Temporary flare of pain and inflammation in the joint. Temporary increase in blood sugar. Tendon weakening.
It may take up two days to two weeks for a succesful facet joint injection to make you feel pain relief and improve your mobility. Keep in mind that all patients react differently.
The absence of specific questions means there is no targeted information to address. For inquiries about joint injections or related services, please reach out directly for assistance or to schedule an appointment.
What are the benefits of cortisone injections?
The benefits of cortisone injections include significant pain relief and reduced inflammation in affected joints, which can enhance mobility and improve overall quality of life for patients suffering from inflammatory joint conditions and back pain.
How long do cortisone injections last?
Cortisone injections typically provide relief that lasts from a few days up to several weeks, depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
What conditions do cortisone injections treat?
Cortisone injections are used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and certain back pain disorders. They help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in affected joints and tissues.
Are there any risks with cortisone injections?
The risks associated with cortisone injections include potential infection, allergic reactions, and temporary pain at the injection site. Additionally, overuse may lead to joint damage or weakened surrounding tissues. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
How is a cortisone injection administered?
The administration of a cortisone injection involves a healthcare professional injecting the medication directly into the affected joint or tissue, often guided by imaging techniques to ensure precise placement.
What should I expect after a cortisone injection?
After a cortisone injection, you can expect some initial discomfort at the injection site, followed by potential relief from pain within a few days. It’s normal to experience temporary swelling or a flare-up of symptoms before improvement occurs.
Can cortisone injections relieve back pain?
Cortisone injections can relieve back pain by reducing inflammation and providing temporary pain relief. They are often effective for treating conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory joint disorders.
How often can I receive cortisone injections?
The frequency of cortisone injections can vary based on individual circumstances, but generally, they can be administered every three to six months. It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best schedule for your specific condition.
What is the recovery time for cortisone injections?
The recovery time for cortisone injections varies, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few days. However, it's essential to follow your doctor's advice for optimal recovery and to monitor for any potential side effects.
Do cortisone injections require special preparation?
Cortisone injections do require some special preparation. Patients are typically advised to avoid blood thinners and certain medications for a few days prior to the procedure to minimise the risk of bleeding and enhance the effectiveness of the injection.
Where can I get cortisone injections locally?
Cortisone injections are available locally at Life Medical Imaging Central Coast, where we specialise in interventional radiology and offer effective treatments for inflammatory joint conditions and back pain. You can easily request an appointment online.
What are the side effects of cortisone injections?
The side effects of cortisone injections may include temporary pain at the injection site, swelling, skin discolouration, and, in some cases, increased blood sugar levels or mood changes. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly.
How effective are cortisone injections for joint pain?
Cortisone injections are effective for alleviating joint pain, often providing significant relief within a few days. However, their effectiveness can vary based on individual conditions and may not be a permanent solution.
Can cortisone injections be used for arthritis?
Cortisone injections can be used for arthritis. They help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in affected joints, providing relief for patients suffering from various forms of arthritis.
What is the procedure for a cortisone injection?
The procedure for a cortisone injection involves cleaning the injection site, administering a local anaesthetic if necessary, and then injecting the cortisone medication directly into the affected joint or area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
How do I prepare for a cortisone injection?
Preparing for a cortisone injection involves several key steps. You should avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for at least 24 hours prior, and ensure you have a clear understanding of your medical history to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Are cortisone injections safe for everyone?
Cortisone injections are not safe for everyone. While they can be effective for many patients, individuals with certain health conditions, allergies, or those taking specific medications should consult their healthcare provider to assess potential risks and benefits before proceeding.
What alternatives exist to cortisone injections?
Alternatives to cortisone injections include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, hyaluronic acid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and lifestyle modifications such as exercise and weight management to alleviate pain and inflammation.
How do cortisone injections compare to other treatments?
Cortisone injections are effective anti-inflammatory treatments that can provide rapid relief for joint pain, often outperforming oral medications and physical therapy in terms of speed and targeted relief. However, they may not address the underlying causes of pain as comprehensively as other long-term treatments.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
If you experience side effects, it is important to contact our clinic immediately. We can provide guidance on managing symptoms and determine if further evaluation is necessary to ensure your well-being.
Can cortisone injections be repeated?
Cortisone injections can be repeated, but it's important to consider the frequency and dosage. Typically, they can be administered every few weeks, depending on individual circumstances and the treating physician's recommendations.
What is the cost of cortisone injections?
The cost of cortisone injections varies based on factors such as location, provider, and insurance coverage. Generally, patients can expect to pay between £100 and £300 per injection, but it's best to consult with your healthcare provider for a precise estimate.
How do I book a cortisone injection appointment?
Booking a cortisone injection appointment is easy. You can schedule your appointment online through our website or by contacting our clinic directly via phone.
What is the difference between cortisone and steroid injections?
The difference between cortisone and steroid injections lies in their composition and effects. Cortisone is a specific type of corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, while steroid injections can refer to a broader range of steroids used for various therapeutic purposes.
How do cortisone injections help with inflammation?
Cortisone injections help reduce inflammation by delivering a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area. This targeted approach alleviates pain and swelling, promoting improved mobility and comfort in conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory joint issues.
What is the success rate of cortisone injections?
The success rate of cortisone injections varies, but studies indicate that around 50-70% of patients experience significant pain relief, particularly for inflammatory joint conditions and back pain.
Can cortisone injections be used for tendonitis?
Cortisone injections can be used for tendonitis to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This treatment can provide significant relief, allowing for improved mobility and function in the affected area.
What happens during a cortisone injection procedure?
During a cortisone injection procedure, a healthcare professional injects a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected joint or area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The process typically involves preparation, local anaesthesia, and imaging guidance for accuracy.
How long does the cortisone injection take to work?
The time it takes for a cortisone injection to work varies, but many patients start to feel relief within a few days, while the full effect may take up to a week or two.
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The absence of specific questions means there is no targeted information to address. For inquiries about joint injections or related services, please reach out directly for assistance or to schedule an appointment.
What are the benefits of cortisone injections?
The benefits of cortisone injections include significant pain relief and reduced inflammation in affected joints, which can enhance mobility and improve overall quality of life for patients suffering from inflammatory joint conditions and back pain.
How long do cortisone injections last?
Cortisone injections typically provide relief that lasts from a few days up to several weeks, depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
What conditions do cortisone injections treat?
Cortisone injections are used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, and certain back pain disorders. They help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in affected joints and tissues.
Are there any risks with cortisone injections?
The risks associated with cortisone injections include potential infection, allergic reactions, and temporary pain at the injection site. Additionally, overuse may lead to joint damage or weakened surrounding tissues. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
How is a cortisone injection administered?
The administration of a cortisone injection involves a healthcare professional injecting the medication directly into the affected joint or tissue, often guided by imaging techniques to ensure precise placement.
What should I expect after a cortisone injection?
After a cortisone injection, you can expect some initial discomfort at the injection site, followed by potential relief from pain within a few days. It’s normal to experience temporary swelling or a flare-up of symptoms before improvement occurs.
Can cortisone injections relieve back pain?
Cortisone injections can relieve back pain by reducing inflammation and providing temporary pain relief. They are often effective for treating conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory joint disorders.
How often can I receive cortisone injections?
The frequency of cortisone injections can vary based on individual circumstances, but generally, they can be administered every three to six months. It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best schedule for your specific condition.
What is the recovery time for cortisone injections?
The recovery time for cortisone injections varies, but most patients can resume normal activities within a few days. However, it's essential to follow your doctor's advice for optimal recovery and to monitor for any potential side effects.
Do cortisone injections require special preparation?
Cortisone injections do require some special preparation. Patients are typically advised to avoid blood thinners and certain medications for a few days prior to the procedure to minimise the risk of bleeding and enhance the effectiveness of the injection.
Where can I get cortisone injections locally?
Cortisone injections are available locally at Life Medical Imaging Central Coast, where we specialise in interventional radiology and offer effective treatments for inflammatory joint conditions and back pain. You can easily request an appointment online.
What are the side effects of cortisone injections?
The side effects of cortisone injections may include temporary pain at the injection site, swelling, skin discolouration, and, in some cases, increased blood sugar levels or mood changes. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly.
How effective are cortisone injections for joint pain?
Cortisone injections are effective for alleviating joint pain, often providing significant relief within a few days. However, their effectiveness can vary based on individual conditions and may not be a permanent solution.
Can cortisone injections be used for arthritis?
Cortisone injections can be used for arthritis. They help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in affected joints, providing relief for patients suffering from various forms of arthritis.
What is the procedure for a cortisone injection?
The procedure for a cortisone injection involves cleaning the injection site, administering a local anaesthetic if necessary, and then injecting the cortisone medication directly into the affected joint or area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
How do I prepare for a cortisone injection?
Preparing for a cortisone injection involves several key steps. You should avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, for at least 24 hours prior, and ensure you have a clear understanding of your medical history to discuss with your healthcare provider.
Are cortisone injections safe for everyone?
Cortisone injections are not safe for everyone. While they can be effective for many patients, individuals with certain health conditions, allergies, or those taking specific medications should consult their healthcare provider to assess potential risks and benefits before proceeding.
What alternatives exist to cortisone injections?
Alternatives to cortisone injections include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, hyaluronic acid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and lifestyle modifications such as exercise and weight management to alleviate pain and inflammation.
How do cortisone injections compare to other treatments?
Cortisone injections are effective anti-inflammatory treatments that can provide rapid relief for joint pain, often outperforming oral medications and physical therapy in terms of speed and targeted relief. However, they may not address the underlying causes of pain as comprehensively as other long-term treatments.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
If you experience side effects, it is important to contact our clinic immediately. We can provide guidance on managing symptoms and determine if further evaluation is necessary to ensure your well-being.
Can cortisone injections be repeated?
Cortisone injections can be repeated, but it's important to consider the frequency and dosage. Typically, they can be administered every few weeks, depending on individual circumstances and the treating physician's recommendations.
What is the cost of cortisone injections?
The cost of cortisone injections varies based on factors such as location, provider, and insurance coverage. Generally, patients can expect to pay between £100 and £300 per injection, but it's best to consult with your healthcare provider for a precise estimate.
How do I book a cortisone injection appointment?
Booking a cortisone injection appointment is easy. You can schedule your appointment online through our website or by contacting our clinic directly via phone.
What is the difference between cortisone and steroid injections?
The difference between cortisone and steroid injections lies in their composition and effects. Cortisone is a specific type of corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, while steroid injections can refer to a broader range of steroids used for various therapeutic purposes.
How do cortisone injections help with inflammation?
Cortisone injections help reduce inflammation by delivering a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area. This targeted approach alleviates pain and swelling, promoting improved mobility and comfort in conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory joint issues.
What is the success rate of cortisone injections?
The success rate of cortisone injections varies, but studies indicate that around 50-70% of patients experience significant pain relief, particularly for inflammatory joint conditions and back pain.
Can cortisone injections be used for tendonitis?
Cortisone injections can be used for tendonitis to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. This treatment can provide significant relief, allowing for improved mobility and function in the affected area.
What happens during a cortisone injection procedure?
During a cortisone injection procedure, a healthcare professional injects a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected joint or area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. The process typically involves preparation, local anaesthesia, and imaging guidance for accuracy.
How long does the cortisone injection take to work?
The time it takes for a cortisone injection to work varies, but many patients start to feel relief within a few days, while the full effect may take up to a week or two.
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