What is a Hip Joint Injection?
A hip joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to deliver medication directly into the hip joint. This injection can help treat pain and inflammation within the hip joint, as well as aid in the diagnosis of the source of a patient’s hip pain.
How is a Hip Joint Injection Performed?
To perform a hip joint injection:
- 1. The patient may be given a mild sedative to help them relax.
- 2. The skin and underlying tissue over the hip joint are thoroughly numbed with a local anesthetic.
- 3. Using either ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician carefully inserts a small needle into the hip joint space.
- 4. If needed, a contrast dye may be injected through the needle to improve visualization of the joint under imaging.
- 5. Once the needle placement is confirmed, the therapeutic medication is injected into the joint.
What Supplies and Medications are Used for a Hip Joint Injection?
The key components for a hip joint injection include:
- – Local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) to numb the injection site
- – Corticosteroid medication (e.g. triamcinolone, methylprednisolone) to reduce inflammation
- – Contrast dye (optional) to enhance imaging of the joint
- – Ultrasound or fluoroscopic imaging equipment to guide needle placement
The specific medications and doses are selected by the physician based on the patient’s individual condition and needs.
What to Expect After a Hip Joint Injection?
Patients may not experience immediate pain relief after the injection, as it can take several days for the anti-inflammatory effects of the medication to take hold. Some patients may feel temporary soreness or discomfort at the injection site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
The full benefits of the hip joint injection may take 1-2 weeks to become apparent. In some cases, multiple injections may be required to achieve the desired level of pain relief and joint function improvement. Patients should follow their physician’s instructions regarding activity restrictions and any necessary follow-up care. They should report any concerning symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or decreased mobility, to their healthcare provider.