An infiltration is a medical procedure that involves injecting a therapeutic substance directly into a joint, tendon, muscle, or affected tissue, usually guided by ultrasound for greater precision. The goal of this technique is to reduce pain, reduce inflammation, or promote tissue regeneration.
What types of injections are there? Do they have long-term side effects?
There are various types of infiltrations, depending on the therapeutic objective:
Corticosteroids
They are powerful anti-inflammatories used to quickly reduce pain. However, recent studies have shown that repeated use can cause degeneration of joint cartilage, even increasing the risk of tendon and ligament rupture. Their use should be reserved for exceptional situations: patients who cannot undergo surgery and are in severe pain; elite athletes in competition (be careful, as this can be considered doping). Such was the case when Bellingham had to have injections in his knee: What is knee injection, the procedure Bellingham has undergone?
Hyaluronic acid
It's a molecule found naturally in the synovial fluid of our joints. Its function is to lubricate and protect against joint wear. Although the scientific evidence is not conclusive, it remains an attractive option, especially in cases of knee osteoarthritis, and with better results than corticosteroid injections.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
It is obtained from a blood sample taken from the patient, which is centrifuged to isolate the platelets. These contain growth factors, which stimulate tissue regeneration. It is often used for persistent tendinopathies (rotator cuff or tennis elbow). It has no adverse effects and is considered a more physiological and safe option.
If you're more interested in this type of injection, don't miss this video about a PRP injection in a patellar tendon.
How long does the effect of the injection last? How often can it be performed?
The duration of the effect depends largely on the characteristics of the patient and the treatment with which it is combined.
- Corticosteroids: about 2 to 6 weeks
- Hyaluronic acid: 4 to 12 months
- PRP: 6 months and 1 year
Ideally, injections should not be used routinely, but rather as a well-justified, one-off option. They should not be the first choice for an injury: conservative treatment based on therapeutic exercise and physical therapy should be attempted first. Only if this approach is insufficient can injections be considered as a supplement.
In any case, if it is performed, it is not recommended to exceed 2-3 infiltrations per year in the same joint.
Do injections hurt? How should they be performed?
The discomfort is usually mild and temporary, similar to that of a conventional injection. To ensure precise and effective administration, it is ideal to perform the injection using ultrasound, thus increasing the effectiveness of the treatment.
What shouldn't be done after an injection? Can injections be combined with physical therapy?
Complete rest is not recommended after an injection, but rather relative rest for the first 24-48 hours, avoiding high-intensity exertion. However, gentle movement is advisable.
Heat, massage, or compression should not be applied to the infiltrated area during the first 24 hours. Anti-inflammatory drugs should also be avoided, as they can interfere with the regenerative process intended by the infiltration.
Ideally, physical therapy should be started as soon as possible, taking advantage of the analgesic window that injections can provide. Injections can be combined with manual therapy, invasive therapy, diathermy and therapeutic exercise, thus allowing us to work more effectively, promoting tissue regeneration and adaptation.
Physiotherapy in Alcalá de Henares for post-injection treatment.
At Evolution Advanced Physiotherapy Clinic, we have specialized physical therapists who are deeply familiar with the different types of injections and know how to combine them with the treatment of various pathologies. Each case is unique, and that's why our treatments are completely personalized and tailored to your needs, ensuring your recovery is as quick and complete as possible.
Have you recently had an injection and are looking for the right treatment to help you recover better? Make an appointment with us and take the next step in your recovery.
