How Long for Joint Injections to Work: Understanding Arthritis Relief and Treatment Timelines

Joint pain caused by arthritis can limit mobility, reduce quality of life, and make everyday tasks difficult. Fortunately, joint injections are a widely used treatment option that can offer significant relief for individuals suffering from arthritis. But one common question patients have is: How long does it take for joint injections to start working?
 

What Are Joint Injections?

Joint injections are minimally invasive procedures that involve delivering medication directly into the affected joint or surrounding tissue. These injections typically contain a combination of corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation; local anesthetics, which provide temporary pain relief; and in some cases, hyaluronic acid or other viscosupplements, which improve joint lubrication. In situations where nerve-related pain or spinal arthritis is present, epidural steroid injections (ESIs) may be used to target inflammation near the nerve roots and relieve radiating pain from the spine.
 

How Long Does It Take for Relief?

The timeframe for pain relief following a joint injection can vary depending on several factors, including the type of injection, the severity of the arthritis, and the patient’s overall health.
 

For epidural steroid injections, most patients start to feel some improvement within 2 to 7 days, with peak relief often occurring around the 2-week mark. The duration of relief can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on individual response. 
 

For other types of joint injections (such as those in the knee, shoulder, or hip) pain relief may begin within 24 to 72 hours, particularly if a local anesthetic is used. Corticosteroids in these injections generally take 3 to 5 days to begin working, with maximum relief occurring in up to 10 days. The effects usually last several weeks to a few months, and in some cases, repeated treatments may be necessary.
 

What If Relief Is Delayed?

Not all patients experience immediate or substantial pain relief from a single injection. When this occurs, multiple injections over time may be required. Additionally, joint injections are often most effective when used in conjunction with other therapies. Individuals with chronic or advanced arthritis may respond more slowly and require a comprehensive, long-term management plan to maintain joint function and reduce pain.
 

Get Started at Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine

Joint injections, including epidural steroid injections, can be an effective and targeted way to manage arthritis pain and inflammation. While some patients experience relief within days, others may require a longer period or additional treatments to see full benefits. At Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine, we customize each treatment plan to ensure optimal outcomes and lasting relief.

If you're struggling with joint pain from arthritis, schedule a consultation with Midwest Sports and Interventional Spine to find out if joint injections are the right solution for your pain relief and recovery.