Name of the Procedure:

Injection(s); single tendon origin/insertion
Common name(s): Tendon Injection, Cortisone Shot

Summary

A tendon injection involves injecting medication directly into the origin or insertion point of a single tendon to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing.

Purpose

The procedure addresses inflammation and pain in tendons due to conditions like tendinitis or tendinosis. The goals are to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and improve tendon function and mobility.

Indications

• Persistent pain or inflammation in a tendon that has not responded to conservative treatments like rest, ice, or physical therapy.
• Conditions such as tendinitis, bursitis, or arthritis involving tendons.
• Patients who are unable to tolerate oral medication due to side effects or contraindications.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, prior to the procedure.
• Fasting is generally not required.
• An ultrasound or MRI may be conducted beforehand to accurately locate the tendon and assess its condition.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin over the tendon is cleaned and sterilized.
2. The healthcare provider may use ultrasound guidance to accurately locate the tendon.
3. Local anesthesia may be applied to numb the area.
4. A needle is inserted into the identified tendon origin or insertion point.
5. Medication, typically a corticosteroid and/or a local anesthetic, is injected into the tendon.
6. The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied to the injection site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a doctor's office.

Personnel

• Physician (often an orthopedic specialist or a rheumatologist)
• Medical assistant or nurse

Risks and Complications

• Common: Pain at the injection site, temporary increase in pain, skin discoloration.
• Rare: Infection, tendon rupture, allergic reaction to the medication.

Benefits

• Reduction in tendon pain and inflammation.
• Improved tendon function and mobility.
• Symptom relief can often be felt within a few hours to a few days.

Recovery

• Patients are usually advised to rest the affected tendon for a few days following the injection.
• Over-the-counter pain relief may be used if needed.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress.
• Physical therapy may be recommended as part of the recovery plan.

Alternatives

• Oral anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers.
• Physical therapy.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
• Surgical intervention in severe cases.
• Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as varying effectiveness, recovery times, and potential side effects or risks.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a brief pinch or burning sensation during the injection.
• Post-procedure discomfort can occur but typically subsides within a few days.
• Pain management may include icing the area and taking prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications.