Ultrasound-Guided Injections for Knee Pain
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that often occurs along with the natural aging process. This common form of wear-and-tear arthritis causes the cushioning cartilage in joints to gradually break down and wear away. As a result, the bones that come together in a joint may begin to grind painfully against each other during movement.
In addition to pain, osteoarthritis of the knee can cause stiffness, swelling, and a sensation that the knee is about to give out, all of which can potentially interfere with daily activities. Many people find that their symptoms improve with conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, strengthening exercises, bracing, and weight loss. Additionally, ultrasound-guided knee injections may be a good option for addressing severe or persistent knee pain.
The pain management specialists at Pain Care in Metro Atlanta, Georgia, offer a full spectrum of the latest conservative treatments for knee pain, including ultrasound-guided knee injections. We encourage our patients to explore all of their nonsurgical options before considering surgery.
What Do Knee Injections Involve?
Performed as an outpatient procedure, ultrasound-guided knee injections allow a physician to deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to a painful area of the knee with a high level of accuracy. To prepare for the procedure, the physician will cleanse the skin and inject a local anesthetic at the injection site. Then, instead of relying on touch and experience to determine the optimal injection placement, the physician will use a handheld ultrasound probe to create highly detailed images of the joint interior in real time.
Using the ultrasound images for guidance, the physician will then insert a needle into the knee, guide it to the targeted area, and deliver the medication. Knee injections can potentially provide temporary but effective relief from painful inflammation and can be repeated if necessary.
If you’d like to learn more about ultrasound-guided injections for knee pain, contact Pain Care today to request a consultation with an experienced pain management specialist at one of our conveniently located offices in Atlanta, GA.
