Joint and Facet Injections in Las Vegas
Joint injections place anti-inflammatory medication directly into a painful joint, such as the knee, hip or shoulder, or the small facet joints of the spine. They reduce inflammation from arthritis or injury, improve movement, and can help confirm which joint is causing your pain.
Joints We Treat
- Facet joints of the neck and lower back
- Sacroiliac (SI) joints at the base of the spine
- Knees
- Hips
- Shoulders
Who Joint Injections Help
Joint injections are used for arthritis, joint inflammation, and pain after sports injuries, falls or car accidents. They are often combined with physical therapy, because less pain makes it easier to rebuild strength and movement.
What to Expect
After the skin is numbed, Dr. Gallagher uses live X-ray or ultrasound guidance to place the needle precisely inside the joint. The procedure is done as an outpatient at a surgery center, and you go home the same day.
Recovery and Results
You may feel relief from the numbing medicine right away. The steroid usually begins working within a few days, and relief can last weeks to months. If a facet joint is confirmed as the source of chronic back pain, radiofrequency ablation can offer longer relief.
Insurance, Medicare and Personal Injury Coverage
Epion accepts most major insurance plans, Medicare, workers' compensation and personal injury liens. Some plans require prior authorization, and our team handles verification before your procedure. See the insurance plans we accept, or if you were hurt in an accident, learn how lien treatment works.
Common Questions
How long do joint injections last?
Relief varies, but many patients feel better for several weeks to several months. Results depend on the joint, the cause of pain and your activity level.
What is the difference between a facet injection and an epidural?
A facet injection treats pain coming from the small joints of the spine. An epidural treats inflamed nerve roots, which usually cause pain that travels into the arms or legs.
How many joint injections can I have?
Steroid injections are usually limited to a few per joint each year. Dr. Gallagher will recommend a safe schedule based on your health and response.
Are joint injections covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans and Medicare cover joint injections when they are medically necessary. Accident patients can be treated on a personal injury lien.
Talk With Dr. Gallagher
Dr. Gallagher is board certified in Pain Medicine and personally sees every patient at every visit. We accept most insurance plans, Medicare, workers' comp and personal injury liens.