Preparing for UltraSound Guided Injections

 

An ultrasound guided injection is a steroid injection. Steroid injections are used to achieve the goal of easing pain and reduce swelling and inflammation. The steroid is usually mixed with an anesthetic for pain numbing purposes.

Ultrasound guided injections are injections that combine both ultrasound technology and medication called cortisone. Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory agent, that serves to reduce the inflammation in the joint providing long term pain benefit. In other words, ultrasound technology provides real-time imaging of abnormalities in nerves, bone, muscles, tendons, and other body parts. Once the injury is identified, a needle is introduced precisely to the injured spot guided by the real-time imaging.

The procedure allows orthopedic surgeons to target spots that were not previously possible, and inject medication precisely and effectively into the degenerated area, without injuring nearby nerves, blood vessels, and other structures.

Ultrasound guided injections ensure the most accurate and precise delivery of the injection into the site of injury. The procedure is widely used to treat painful musculoskeletal conditions associated with sports injuries, nerve injury, and degenerative disorders such as arthritis. Before ultrasound guided injections were available, injections had a higher probability of missing their mark, ultimately failing at treating the affected area.

Ultrasound Guided Injections can be used to treat a number of conditions:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Rotator cuff injury
• Shoulder impingement
• Shoulder bursitis
• Shoulder tendon tear or tendinitis
• Frozen shoulder
• Golfer’ elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome impacting the wrist
• Neck and back pain
• Chronic headaches
• Nerve injury

There is no specific way to prepare for an ultrasound-guided injection. Before the procedure, it will be explained to you and will have an opportunity to ask questions. After the injection, you may not feel any pain due to anesthetic. After it wears off, the injection site may feel uncomfortable and a little sore or tender.

To learn more about ultrasound guided injections, call Dr. Bill Hefley (800) 336-2412 to request an appointment, or request one online.