ABSTRACT: Joint aspiration may be used for diagnosis or for
relieving pressure, and joint injection may be used for
treatment. Physicians can easily become proficient in aspiration
and injection techniques. Indications for aspiration include
both acute and chronic arthritis; there are few absolute
contraindications. Intra-articular injections of medication
usually are an adjunct to other treatment modalities.
Indications for corticosteroid injections include acute crystal-
induced arthritis; complications are rare. Less soluble agents
remain in a joint space longer than more soluble agents and
should have a longer duration of action. Physicians should
perform injections wearing gloves and using aseptic technique.
No one technique has proved to be optimal. After an aspiration
or injection, the patient should be given detailed instructions.
(J Musculoskel Med. 2011;28:216-222) Two primary indications
call for inserting a needle into a joint: (1) aspiration of
fluid for diagnostic purposes or for relieving pressu