What is an Ankle Joint Injection?
An ankle joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, injury, or other degenerative conditions of the ankle. By delivering targeted medication directly into the joint, ankle injections can help improve mobility, reduce swelling, and restore function so you can return to your daily activities with less discomfort.
Why We Use Ultrasound Guidance
At Vitality Health Center, all ankle joint injections are performed under real-time ultrasound guidance. This advanced imaging technique allows us to:
- Pinpoint the exact location of the joint space
- Ensure accurate placement of the medication
- Minimize risk of complications
- Maximize treatment effectiveness
Conditions Treated
Ankle joint injections may be recommended for patients experiencing:
- Osteoarthritis of the ankle
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout-related joint inflammation
- Chronic ankle pain following injury
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The skin is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Using ultrasound, the provider guides a thin needle into the ankle joint.
- Medication—typically a combination of a corticosteroid and anesthetic—is injected directly into the joint.
- The procedure takes only a few minutes, and patients can walk out shortly afterward.
Benefits of Ankle Joint Injections
- Targeted relief of pain and inflammation
- Quick, outpatient procedure with minimal downtime
- Improved mobility and function
- Non-surgical treatment option
Aftercare
Most patients can resume normal activities the same day, though it’s best to limit strenuous activity for 24 hours. Pain relief may begin within a few days and can last weeks to months, depending on the underlying condition.
Schedule a consultation today to see if an ankle joint injection is the right treatment for you.