A hip injection typically contains a mixture of medication designed to relieve pain and inflammation in the hip joint. The primary components are usually a corticosteroid (like cortisone) and a local anesthetic.
Components of a Hip Injection:
- Corticosteroid: This is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication that helps reduce swelling and pain in the joint. Corticosteroids work over several days to significantly decrease inflammation. Examples include hydrocortisone.
- Local Anesthetic: This provides immediate, albeit temporary, pain relief. The anesthetic quickly numbs the area, offering immediate comfort while the corticosteroid takes effect. This effect typically lasts only a few hours.
Some hip injections may also be used diagnostically to determine the source of hip pain.
How a Hip Injection Works:
The combined action of the corticosteroid and anesthetic aims to provide both immediate and long-term pain relief. The anesthetic tackles the immediate pain, while the corticosteroid addresses the underlying inflammation. The doctor may use imaging guidance like ultrasound to accurately target the injection.
Types of Hip Injections:
While the most common type involves injecting into the hip joint (intra-articular), injections can also be administered around tendons (extra-articular) to target specific pain sources.
