Bursa Injections
There are dozens of bursae throughout the body that provide cushion around joints. These fluid-filled sacs are in areas where tendons, ligaments and muscles are sliding over bones, creating a buffer to avoid friction and allow for smooth movements. Injuries and repetitive wear can cause inflammation of bursae, resulting in bursitis. One of the most effective treatments for bursitis are bursa injections, which are available at Allied Pain & Spine Institute in San Leandro, CA.
Inflammation in and around the joints can lead to bursitis, which is a painful joint condition. Arthritis can contribute to swollen bursae, as well as repetitive wear and tear on the joints. Bursitis is most common in the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee joints. When the bursae are inflamed, it can create stiff and painful joints and other problems.
Bursa injections are a steroid injection that can relieve the inflammation in and around a swollen bursa. Steroid injections can be used as treatment for bursitis, but also may be used as a diagnostic tool. If the steroid or anesthetic in the injection provide pain relief, it can pinpoint the source of pain in the joint.
Treatment for Bursitis and Arthritis
Bursa or joint injections are a quick and effective option for joint pain relief. Most bursa injections can be performed in about 15-20 minutes. Depending on the bursa affected, imaging guidance may be needed to place the needle in the correct spot. This can ensure the medication is delivered exactly where it needs to go to provide the anti-inflammatory effects. Our medical center in San Leandro is equipped with advanced imaging options to perform image-guided injections.
In many cases, bursa injections relieve bursitis inflammation permanently and only need to be performed once. For those with arthritis or chronic bursitis, steroid injections can be repeated a few times a year.
Bursitis and arthritis can cause debilitating joint pain. Bursa injections are a non-invasive treatment that can provide excellent pain management for inflammatory joint pain. If you want to explore bursa injections to relieve your joint pain, contact us at Allied Pain & Spine Institute in San Leandro, CA, to schedule a pain management consultation.