As we get older, our bodies undergo considerable modifications. Joint pain is common among most senior citizens. This pain may render even common activities such as walking or climbing stairs very difficult.
At Primary Care of Kansas, we realize how this ache influences daily routines, and we’re here to support.
One treatment that provides quick relief is joint injections. The following question appears to many people: Are joint injections safe for seniors?
Let’s find out in simple terms.
What Are Joint Injections?
Joint injections are a way to treat pain in joints like the knees, shoulders, or hips.
Using a small needle, a doctor will inject the pain lying within the painful joint with the help of medicine. This will aid in avoiding swelling, reducing pain, and gaining relief from movement.
In Primary Care of Kansas, we have specialists who employ accurate and trusted methods in ensuring that we provide the safest care to you. We need time to know your needs and apply the most appropriate methods to your health.
Here are some of the common joint injections we offer:
- Corticosteroid Injections: This reduces the swelling and provides short-term analgesia.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections: These add cushioning to the joint and resupply moisture to the joints, generally for the knee.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: Platelet-rich plasma involves the use of your own blood to make the joint heal itself.
- Nerve Block Injections: These block pain from reaching the brain.
Why Do Older Adults Need Them?
As we age, joint tissues break down, causing arthritis and discomfort. People may experience challenges in walking. Medications or exercises are not always effective. That is the point when joint injections come to the rescue.
They relieve and assist the elderly in remaining active. To most of them, this translates to the fact that they are able to continue gardening, taking walks, or having some fun playing with grandchildren.
Are Joint Injections Safe for Older Adults?
Yes, joint injections are commonly safe for older adults when done by trained professionals like the team at Primary Care of Kansas.
What makes them safe?
- Fast and Easy: Injections take a few minutes.
- No Surgery: It is non-invasive.
- Minimal to No Recovery Time: You can resume normal life immediately.
- Pain Management: A good number of patients experience improvement in a few days.
Before giving any injection, we check your medical history, medicines, and allergies to make sure the treatment is safe for you.
Possible Side Effects to Watch For
Most people feel fine after a joint injection, but there are a few side effects that could occur:
- Mild pain where the needle went in
- Swelling or redness
- A small chance of infection
- Allergic reaction
- A rise in blood sugar (for diabetic patients after steroid shots)
Contact your doctor in case of any of the side effects continuing after more than a day or two. At Primary Care of Kansas, we’re always here to guide you and answer your questions.
How Long Do Joint Injections Last?
That depends on the injection and the person’s condition:
- Steroid shots may last a few weeks to a few months.
- Hyaluronic acid can help for up to six months.
- PRP varies but may provide relief for a longer time.
We may repeat injections if needed, but not too often. For example, cortisone shots are usually limited to 3–4 times per year in the same joint.
Can All Older Adults Get Joint Injections?
Most seniors can safely receive joint injections. But some may not be good candidates, such as:
- People with serious infections
- Those with bleeding problems
- Patients taking blood thinners (may need to pause them briefly)
- Anyone allergic to injection materials
We’ll look at your full medical picture to make the right decision for you.
How to Get Ready for a Joint Injection
Getting ready is simple:
- Wear loose outfits to ensure that the doctor has access to the joint.
- Take a light meal before the appointment.
- Let us know all the medications and supplements you take.
- Bring someone to drive you home if needed.
At Primary Care of Kansas, your comfort and safety come first. We’ll walk you through everything step by step.
What to Expect After the Injection?
After the injection:
- You might feel a little pain, but that should go away soon.
- You may need to rest for a day.
- Use ice packs if there’s swelling.
- Avoid hard activities (like heavy lifting) for 24 hours.
If you notice fever, strong pain, or your joint looks red and hot, give us a call right away.
Other Ways to Help with Joint Pain
Healthy habits also combine better with joint injections and include:
- Exercise: Gentle stretching and walking can help keep your joints flexible.
- Physical Therapy: Our physicians will guide you through safe exercises to avoid injuries.
- Healthy Food: Good health food requires healthy bones.
- Weight Loss: The more you drop, the lighter the weight on your joints.
- Heat or Ice: It can calm discomfort or swelling.
At Primary Care of Kansas, we offer full support to help you feel your best, not just with injections but with overall care.
Final Thoughts
So, are joint injections safe for older adults? The answer is mostly yes. When done by a skilled team like ours at Primary Care of Kansas.
A joint injection can reduce pain, increase movement, and ease the lives of older people. Find us and ask us to help you with the joint pain you experience, or that of a loved one.
We will ensure that this treatment is suitable and make sure that you are confident all the way.
Ready to find relief?
Reach out to Primary Care of Kansas today to book your consultation and initiate your path to pain-free living.
FAQs
Q: Can I walk after a joint injection?
Yes. Casual walking is generally alright the next day, but refrain from intense workouts for 24–48 hours.
Q: Are joint injections better than knee replacement?
The severity of the damage decides the treatment. Injections for symptoms, surgery for repairs.
Q: Are they painful?
Most people feel a sting or nip, and the distress is minor and short-lived.
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