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Tendon injections offer focused relief for injuries and inflammation affecting tendons, accelerating recovery and lessening discomfort via minimally invasive treatment methods.
Understanding tendon injections
Tendon injections are a medical procedure where medication is delivered directly into a tendon, the fibrous cord connecting muscle to bone. These injections are primarily used to treat tendonitis or decrease tendon inflammation, which causes pain and limits movement. This minimally invasive method aims to reduce swelling, alleviate discomfort, and encourage healing in the affected tissue.
How Are Tendon Injections Performed?
During a tendon injection procedure, you will be positioned to access the affected area comfortably. The skin overlying the tendon is cleansed, and a local anesthetic may be applied. Using a fine needle, the doctor injects a solution (often a combination of a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and a local anesthetic to relieve pain) into the tendon sheath. The procedure is usually quick, with the injection taking only a few minutes. Time is crucial for healing tendon injuries effectively.
The main therapeutic goal of tendon injections is to deliver medication that reduces inflammation and pain directly to the site of tendonitis. This tendonitis treatment option can also have a diagnostic role by determining if the tendon is the source of pain. Improvement following an injection can confirm the diagnosis and guide further treatment.
Pre-Op and Post-Op Instructions
Pre-Op
- Arrange transportation if you anticipate trouble using the treated tendon after the injection.
- Discuss all medications with your physician, as some may require temporary cessation.
- Diabetic patients must ensure good blood sugar control, as corticosteroids can impact glucose.
- Individuals on blood thinners might need to pause these medications prior to the procedure.
- Inform your doctor if you show signs of an active infection; the treatment may need to be postponed.
Post-Op
- Prioritize rest, protecting the tendon from stress to optimize the post-injection healing process.
- Apply ice to the site to decrease any minor swelling or discomfort.
- Avoid immersing the area in water, such as swimming or hot tubs, for a couple of days.
- Watch carefully for signs of infection or adverse reactions and promptly inform the clinic if they arise.
- Attend follow-up visits to track the healing progress and review any necessary subsequent treatment.
Understanding the Tendon Injection
A tendon injection is a targeted, minimally invasive procedure designed to deliver medication directly into an irritated or inflamed tendon, helping reduce pain and promote healing. This advanced treatment is commonly recommended for patients experiencing tendon-related pain, stiffness, or weakness caused by overuse, injury, or chronic inflammation. By calming the affected tendon and reducing inflammatory response, the injection helps restore comfort and function along the tendon’s natural movement path.
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Key Benefits of a Tendon Injection
A tendon injection offers several distinct advantages for individuals dealing with painful or inflamed tendons:
Targeted Pain Relief:
This treatment delivers medication directly to the affected tendon, providing precise and effective relief from tendon-related pain.
Minimally Invasive:
As a non-surgical option, a tendon injection is far less invasive than operative procedures and typically requires little to no downtime.
Improved Mobility:
By reducing inflammation and calming irritated tissue, the injection can restore smoother, more comfortable movement—helping you return to daily activities.
Diagnostic Value:
Beyond immediate pain improvement, a positive response confirms the tendon as the source of symptoms, guiding a more accurate long-term treatment plan.
Your Procedure: Pre and Post-Care Instructions
Before Your Procedure
- You must arrange for a driver, as temporary leg numbness or weakness is expected.
- Review all medications with your specialist, especially blood thinners, so we can advise you of any necessary medication adjustments.
- Adhere to all fasting guidelines provided if your procedure will involve any sedation.
- Please notify our office of any fever or illness, as we may need to reschedule your appointment.
After Your Procedure
- Plan to rest and avoid all strenuous activity, especially impacting your lower back or legs, for the next 24 to 48 hours.
- You may apply ice packs to the site to reduce any minor swelling or soreness.
- Monitor the injection site for any signs of infection, like excessive swelling, redness, or drainage, and contact our office immediately if you notice any of these symptoms occurring.
- We will schedule a follow-up visit to evaluate the block’s success and discuss the next steps in your sciatica management plan.
Next Steps After Tendon Injections
If symptoms persist or return following the initial relief, further injections may be an option. Other therapeutic approaches, including physical therapy or minimally invasive surgery, may be discussed based on the severity of the condition and the response to the primary treatments.
Tendon Injections
FAQ
What are tendon injections used for?
Tendon injections are commonly used to treat tendonitis and other tendon-related injuries. These injections deliver anti-inflammatory medications or regenerative substances directly into the affected tendon, helping to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and promote healing.
What types of tendon injections are available?
The most common tendon injections include corticosteroid injections, which reduce swelling and pain, and regenerative injections, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy, which stimulate tissue repair and promote long-term healing.
How long does it take to feel relief after a tendon injection?
Relief from tendon injections can vary based on the injection type and condition severity. Corticosteroid injections may provide relief within a few days, while regenerative injections like PRP might take several weeks to show noticeable improvement as the natural healing process occurs.
Are tendon injections painful?
The procedure is usually well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort. A local anesthetic is generally applied to numb the area before the injection, minimizing pain during the procedure. Some soreness at the injection site may occur afterward but typically resolves within a few days.
How many tendon injections will I need?
The number of injections needed varies depending on the individual and the specific condition. Some patients may experience significant relief after just one injection, while others might need several to achieve the best outcome. Your physician will create a customized treatment plan.
What are the risks and side effects of tendon injections?
While generally safe, tendon injections carry potential risks and side effects. These may include temporary pain or swelling at the injection site, infection, or, rarely, weakening of the tendon if corticosteroids are used too often. Your physician will discuss these risks and take steps to minimize complications.
Who is a good candidate for tendon injections?
Tendon injections are often recommended for individuals with tendonitis or other related injuries who have not improved with conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, or oral medications. A thorough medical evaluation by your physician is necessary to determine if injections are a suitable option.
How do tendon injections compare to other treatments?
Tendon injections offer a targeted approach to healing, delivering medicine directly to the tendon. This can be more effective than oral medications and is less invasive than surgery. They can also be used in combination with other treatments like physical therapy to enhance recovery.
What should I expect after the injection?
After the injection, you may feel immediate relief, though the full effects might take a few days to become noticeable. For a short time, it’s wise to rest the affected tendon and avoid strain. Your physician will give you specific care instructions and may schedule a follow-up to check the treatment’s success.