FAQ: Intra-Articular Hip Injections

What is this treatment for?

Intra-articular hip injections refer to a steroid being introduced into the hip joint. It is designed to provide relief to patients with chronic hip pain due to arthritis. The synthetic steroid can be compared to a steroid the body naturally produces and has strong anti-inflammatory properties.

What results can I expect?

Ideally, relief from pain that lasts anywhere from several weeks to several months. It depends on the patient and the severity of the arthritis.

How is the procedure done?

The procedure will be done at an outpatient surgical center. The physician will clean the area to be injected with an antibacterial solution, and numb it using local anesthetic. The physician will use x-ray guidance to determine the precise injection point of the hip joint.

What can I expect the day of my procedure?

Arrive at the surgery center at least a half hour before the treatment has been scheduled. You should bring a responsible adult with you, since you may receive medications that could impair your driving ability. Take your normal medications beforehand (i.e., medications for blood pressure, asthma, heart and pain). Don’t take any blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin.

When you arrive, fill out the necessary paperwork. In the pre-op area, a nurse will ask you some questions regarding your health and give you consent forms to sign. Make sure you alert the nurse of any changes in your medical history and any allergies you may have to certain medications. Your vital signs will be taken and an IV may be started to begin providing pain relief and relaxation.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be transferred to the recovery room area where you will be monitored anywhere from thirty to sixty minutes. Your IV will be removed and you’ll receive written instructions for home care.

Usually, you can go home after about thirty minutes to an hour. Make sure the person you’ve brought with you can stay with you at home for a few hours. Also, don’t overuse the joint for the rest of the day.

Contact Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio or Boerne for an appointment at 210.545.7171 to discuss if intra-articular hip injections to provide you with the relief you seek.