Bursa Injections
Bursa injections are commonly used to treat bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa that can occur due to injury, repetitive motion, arthritis, or infection.
Who Benefits from Bursa Injections
You may be a candidate for a bursa injection if you experience:
- Persistent joint pain or tenderness—especially in the shoulder, hip, elbow, or knee
- Swelling
- Limited range of motion due to discomfort
- Pain that worsens with movement or pressure
- Symptoms that have not improved with rest, ice, physical therapy, or oral anti-inflammatory medications
A healthcare provider can confirm bursitis or related inflammation through physical examination and possibly imaging (e.g., ultrasound, MRI).
What to Expect
Common bursa injections would be the hip (greater trochanter), ischial, knee, and shoulder. Usually, we do not place restrictions on patients after having these injections and often they may be used to relieve pain in order to help facilitate compliance with physical therapy and/or chiropractic care of the affected area.
- Preparation: The skin around the injection site is cleaned and sterilized. You may be asked to wear a gown depending on the injection location.
- Positioning: You’ll be positioned so that the joint is accessible and comfortable.
- Injection: A small needle is used to inject the steroid and anesthetic directly into the inflamed bursa. Ultrasound guidance may be used for precision.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes.
- Pain Level: Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the injection.
You’ll usually be monitored briefly after the procedure and can return home the same day.
After the Procedure
- Immediate Relief: The anesthetic may provide rapid, short-term pain relief within hours.
- Delayed Effect: The steroid medication may take up to 14 days to begin reducing inflammation and providing longer-lasting relief. Temporary Discomfort: Some patients may experience increased soreness or a “flare” in the joint for 24–48 hours post-injection.
Let your provider know if pain worsens significantly, or if you develop fever, redness, or drainage at the injection site.
Recovery and After Care
- Post-injection a nurse will walk you through aftercare, and written discharge instructions will be provided.
How Long Do Results Last?
Relief can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of inflammation and individual response. In some cases, injections may be repeated, but typically no more than 3–4 times per year in the same location.
Note: Bursa injections are one part of a broader treatment plan. Physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, or addressing underlying causes (such as repetitive strain or arthritis) can enhance long-term outcomes.