An injection appointment is an in-office procedure that typically takes about an hour. Here’s how to prepare and what to plan for afterward.
Steroid Injections
Please tell us if you’ve had a steroid injection in the joint we’re treating. We prefer the joint to be free of steroids for one month before and six months after your procedure.
Medications
Share a current list of medications and supplements with our staff so we can advise you if anything should be paused. We do perform injections on patients taking blood thinners—please notify us in advance.
Activity Planning
Plan to limit use of the injected joint for 3–5 days after your procedure:
- Hips & Knees: Light walking at home only. We may send you home with a walker or crutches to reduce joint loading.
- Shoulders: Limit use—avoid lifting, stretching, or vigorous motion.
Try to block out a few days for rest so recovery is easier.
Anti-inflammatories
If you can tolerate it, consider minimizing anti-inflammatory medication after your injection. Some literature suggests early post-procedure inflammation may help signal cellular activity in the joint. Evidence is not definitive—your clinician will personalize guidance.
Dr. Kevin Crawford is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon providing orthopedic and regenerative treatments for a range of joint conditions.