One of the more common non-surgical treatments used for people with arthritis is an injection into the joint.
The most frequently usedinjections are steroids.One other key in of injection is calledviscosupplementation, an option for knee arthritis.
Studies have examined whether these injections are safe to perform prior to planned joint replacement.
GARO / PHANIE / Getty Imaged
However, individual surgeons may have varying approaches to this.
One possibility is that the medications may diminish the ability of the body to defend itself from infectious bacteria.
Furthermore, an infection, in worst cases, can lead to serious systemic infections.
When infections are detected earl,y the treatment may be less invasive.
Bottom Line: Is a Shot Safe?
Performing surgery on that knee within seven months of the injection may place you at higher risk for infection.
Avoiding infection is very important, and every step should be taken to prevent this potentially serious complication.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Total Joint Replacment.
Wilson-Morkeh H, Mackworth-Young C. Non-surgical regional therapy for osteoarthritis: an update and review of the literature.
In: Amarasekera H, ed.Recent Advances in Bone Tumours and Osteoarthritis.
“Injections May Increase Infection Risk in TKA Patients” AAOSNow.
