What Is a Bursa Injection?

A bursa injection is a targeted treatment to reduce inflammation and pain in a bursa, a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues in your joints. This procedure is commonly used to enhance joint pain relief and also treat bursitis, a painful condition in which bursae become inflamed, often affecting shoulders, elbows, hips, or knees.

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Understanding Bursa: What It Is and Why It Matters

A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. These sacs act as cushions, ensuring smooth and pain-free movement of the joints. Bursae are found throughout the body, with the most commonly affected ones in the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. When a bursa becomes inflamed—a condition known as bursitis—it can lead to significant pain and discomfort, limiting your ability to move the affected joint.

Inflammation of the bursa often results from repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on a joint, but it can also be caused by trauma, infection, or underlying conditions like arthritis. Understanding the function and importance of bursae helps one appreciate the significance of bursa injections as an effective treatment option. By targeting the source of inflammation directly, bursa injections can provide relief from pain, allowing one to regain mobility and improve their quality of life.

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How Bursa Injection Is Performed

Your physician will conduct the bursa injection therapy with you positioned for optimal access to the affected joint. After cleansing the area with an antiseptic, a local anesthetic minimizes pain. A needle is then precisely inserted, sometimes with ultrasound guidance, to inject medication directly into the bursa. The bursa injection is a quick pain relief procedure, generally completed within minutes.

The bursa injection serves a therapeutic purpose, relieving pain and inflammation. Additionally, it may help diagnose the cause of joint pain. If pain relief is achieved, it indicates that the bursa is the pain source, validating the treatment approach. Achieving relief underscores the treatment for bursitis as valid, setting a precedent for potential therapeutic joint injections for similar cases.

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Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions

Before the Procedure

  • Arrange transportation for after the procedure if you’re advised not to drive.
  • Discuss all your current medications with your physician to determine if any changes are needed.
  • If you have diabetes, maintain strict glucose control for seven days before the procedure.
  • Consult with your doctor about managing blood thinners before the injection.
  • Obtain a cardiac clearance letter if required.
  • Report any signs of active infection, as the procedure may need to be rescheduled.
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After the Procedure

  • Rest the treated joint, avoiding strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours.
  • Apply ice to manage minor swelling or discomfort.
  • Steer clear of swimming or saunas for 24 to 48 hours post-injection.
  • Post-injection care – Monitor for signs of infection or adverse reactions and contact the clinic if any occur.
  • Schedule follow-up appointments to evaluate the treatment’s success, aiming for an 80% symptom improvement.
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Next Steps After a Bursa Injection

Additional bursa injections or alternative treatments may be considered if symptoms persist or the condition recurs. Your physician will discuss a comprehensive treatment plan for minimizing joint inflammation, which may include physical therapy or lifestyle modifications to prevent future inflammation.

If you're seeking relief from joint pain, schedule a consultation with Advanced Relief Institute today to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward a pain-free life.

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Bursa Injections FAQ

Who is a candidate for a bursa injection?

What are the risks and side effects of bursa injections?

How long does the relief from a bursa injection last?

How often can bursa injections be repeated?

Is the bursa injection procedure painful?

How does a bursa injection compare to other treatments?

Who is a candidate for a bursa injection?

A bursa injection is ideal for individuals suffering from bursitis or chronic joint pain, particularly when these symptoms have not responded to other conservative treatments like rest, ice, or physical therapy. Candidates typically experience significant pain and inflammation in the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee joints. Patients mustn't have any active infections or allergies to the medication used in the injection. A consultation with your physician is necessary to determine if a bursa injection is the right treatment for you.

What are the risks and side effects of bursa injections?

While bursa injections are generally safe, there are some risks and potential side effects to be aware of. Common side effects include temporary pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. In rare cases, patients may experience infection, bleeding, or an allergic reaction to the injected medication. Long-term corticosteroid injections can weaken tendons or other tissues in the joint. Discussing these risks with your physician will help you make an informed decision about your treatment.

How long does the relief from a bursa injection last?

The duration of pain relief from a bursa injection varies depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Patients often experience relief for several weeks to a few months. If the injection is effective, your physician may recommend repeat injections or additional treatments to maintain the benefits. Other therapeutic approaches, such as physical therapy, may also be suggested to enhance and prolong the effects of the injection.

How often can bursa injections be repeated?

The frequency of bursa injections depends on your condition and how well you respond to the treatment. Generally, physicians recommend waiting at least three to six months between injections to allow the body time to respond and to avoid potential side effects from repeated corticosteroid use. However, the exact timing depends on your needs and your physician's guidance. Regular follow-ups are essential to determine the best treatment schedule for you.

Is the bursa injection procedure painful?

Most patients find the bursa injection procedure relatively quick and minimally painful. The area is typically numbed with a local anesthetic before the injection, which helps to minimize discomfort. Some patients may feel a brief pinch or pressure during the injection, but the pain is usually mild and temporary. If you have concerns about pain, discuss them with your physician, who can take additional measures to ensure your comfort during the procedure.

How does a bursa injection compare to other treatments?

Bursa injections are a targeted treatment option, often providing faster and more localized relief than oral medications or physical therapy alone. They are particularly effective for reducing inflammation and pain in cases of bursitis or chronic joint pain. Compared to surgical options, bursa injections are minimally invasive and carry fewer risks, making them an attractive first-line treatment. However, they may not be a permanent solution and are often used with other therapies, such as physical therapy or lifestyle changes, to achieve the best long-term results.

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