DO I NEED BURSA INJECTIONS?
The primary goal of a Bursa Injection is to reduce inflammation in or around the bursa by injecting a small dose of corticosteroid and local anesthetic. A bursa is a small sac, found in joints throughout the body including in the hips, knees, shoulders, and elbows, that provides cushion between tendons and bones and acts as a shock absorber to reduce friction. Bursa sacs are filled with synovial fluid which acts as a lubricant and protects the joints from friction with other bones and cartilage. They allow tendons to slide easily over the bone, without limiting the range of motion.
Inflammation of the bursa can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, difficulty moving the joint, and limited range of motion. This inflammation is commonly caused by:
- Repetitive motion
- Overuse
- Injury
In many situations, non-invasive treatments such as rest, ice therapy, heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications are sufficient in treating joint pain caused by inflammation. However, if conservative treatments are not effective in relieving your pain and restoring range of motion, or your condition is getting worse, you may need Bursa Injections.
Try our treatment finder tool below to see if Bursa Injections are the right treatment for you.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR BURSA INJECTIONS?
Candidates for Bursa Injections have joint pain that has not improved with more conservative treatment options such as rest, ice therapy, heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Common conditions of candidates treated with Bursa Injections include:
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammatory diseases
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
Bursa Injections are typically administered as part of an overarching non-surgical treatment plan. Depending on your specific condition, it may be recommended to receive Bursa Injections separated by four to six months.
At Oasis Orthopedic & Spine, Bursa Injections are fairly quick procedures. From start to finish, the appointment typically takes less than two hours. The area of injection, usually the location of the most pain, is cleaned then numbed with a small needle and a numbing agent. Then, a thin needle is passed through your skin to the bursa where the corticosteroid and local anesthetic mixture is injected. While it can vary from person to person, pain relief from a Bursa Injection can last up to six months following the injection.
Treating your pain with Bursa Injections can help you get your life back. Find out if you qualify for Bursa Injections with our candidacy check tool below.