If you’re living with arthritis pain, you're not alone—and you may be wondering what treatments could help you find relief beyond oral medications or physical therapy. One option that many people consider is arthritis injections.

Injections can target pain and inflammation directly at the source, offering faster and sometimes longer-lasting relief. But not all injections are the same. Here's a simple guide to understanding the types of arthritis injections, how they work, what to expect, and who they might benefit.

Why Consider Arthritis Injections?

Arthritis often causes inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joints. Injections can:

• Quickly reduce inflammation
• Improve joint function
• Delay or even reduce the need for surgery
• Complement other arthritis treatments like exercise or physical therapy

Injections are often used when oral medications are not enough or when side effects from systemic drugs become a concern.

Common Types of Arthritis Injections

1. Corticosteroid Injections (Steroid Shots)

Best for: Reducing inflammation and pain in a specific joint

• Corticosteroids like cortisone are powerful anti-inflammatories.
• Relief can begin within a few days and last several weeks to a few months.
• Commonly used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
• Most doctors limit the number of steroid injections to 3–4 per year per joint to avoid damaging cartilage.

2. Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Viscosupplementation)

Best for: People with osteoarthritis, especially in the knee

• Hyaluronic acid is a natural lubricant found in healthy joints.
• Injections help cushion and lubricate the joint, improving movement and reducing pain.
• They are most effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
• Relief usually develops over a few weeks and can last up to six months.

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

Best for: Stimulating healing in the joint

• PRP uses a patient's own blood, processed to concentrate platelets and growth factors.
• May help repair tissues and reduce inflammation naturally.
• Some studies show promising results, especially for younger patients or early arthritis stages.
• Not always covered by insurance because it’s still considered experimental in many cases.

4. Stem Cell Injections

Best for: Potential regeneration of joint tissue (research is ongoing)

• Stem cells are harvested from the patient’s bone marrow or fat and injected into the joint.
• Aimed at promoting healing and possibly slowing arthritis progression.
• Still largely experimental and usually not covered by insurance.

What to Expect During and After an Injection

• The procedure is usually done in a doctor’s office.
• You may feel a pinch or slight pressure during the injection.
• Some doctors use imaging (like ultrasound) to guide the needle for precise placement.
• Temporary soreness at the injection site is normal.
• Relief can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the injection type.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You might be a good candidate for arthritis injections if:

• You have moderate to severe joint pain not relieved by medications or therapy
• You want to delay surgery like knee replacement
• You have isolated joint pain (knee, shoulder, hip, etc.)
• You are medically unable to tolerate certain oral arthritis medications

Always talk to your doctor about your specific condition, joint damage level, and overall health before choosing injection therapy.

Important Things to Know

• Injections don't cure arthritis—they manage symptoms.
• Some injections, like corticosteroids, can lose effectiveness over time if overused.
• Results vary: some people get months of relief, while others may not respond as well.
• Combining injections with lifestyle changes (like weight management and exercise) often leads to better outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Arthritis injections can be an important tool in managing joint pain, improving mobility, and enhancing your overall quality of life. Understanding the different types of injections, their benefits, and their limitations can help you make an informed decision alongside your healthcare provider.

If you're struggling with arthritis pain, it’s worth exploring whether injections could help you get back to doing the activities you love—more comfortably.