Therapeutic Joint Injections

Also known as: therapeutic knee injections, joint injections.

What are therapeutic joint injections?

Therapeutic joint injections are a pain-reducing treatment for arthritis. They involve injecting a steroid directly into the painful joint in order to reduce pain and swelling.

What happens during the treatment?

The doctor uses an X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan for guidance during the injection. In some cases, contrast dye is injected to further help with joint location. Then a needle is injected directly into the joint in order to inject the steroid medication into the joint for pain relief.
 

Is any special preparation needed? 

There are no special preparations required for this treatment.
 

What are the risk factors?

Infection, bleeding, allergic reactions, nerve injury and paleness at the injection site are all potential risks.

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Reviewed by: Annie L Casta, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:44 PM