In brief
- Bursitis is inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints.
- Ultrasound guidance puts the medication into the thin bursal sac rather than the surrounding tissue.
- Relief from the anesthetic lasts several hours; the anti-inflammatory takes 2 to 5 days for full effect, with peak relief at 3 to 7 days.
- After the inflammation settles, we help identify the mechanical cause so the bursitis does not return.
Understanding your diagnosis
Bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints become inflamed. This is common in the shoulder (subacromial), hip (greater trochanteric), and pelvis (ischial). When a bursa is irritated, even simple movements can cause sharp pain, localized swelling, and a catching sensation that limits your mobility.
The treatment
A bursa injection is a targeted, minimally invasive procedure designed to put out the fire of inflammation. We deliver a concentrated blend of local anesthetic and a powerful anti-inflammatory (steroid) directly into the inflamed bursa. By treating the source of the irritation, the medication reduces swelling and allows the surrounding tendons and muscles to glide smoothly again.
Our approach
Dr. Pugh uses ultrasound guidance to visualize the bursa in real time, so the medication is delivered precisely into the thin bursal sac rather than the surrounding tissue. This accuracy leads to more effective relief and a faster return to your daily activities.
Before your procedure
Medication holds
A medication hold is typically not required for medial branch blocks, sacroiliac joint injections, or ultrasound-guided peripheral joint or bursa injections unless specifically directed by our office.
Fasting, sedation, and your ride home
- If you are receiving sedation, nothing to eat or drink for six hours before your appointment. Essential morning medications may be taken with a small sip of water only.
- We offer light or deep sedation. The level is decided by the physician and anesthesia team based on the procedure and clinical need.
- Any patient receiving sedation must be accompanied by a responsible adult driver to take them home.
Where to go
Procedures are performed at one of three facilities: our clinic at 1925 Hospital Place, ACOM at 6449 Central Park Blvd, or Hendrick South at 6399 Directors Pkwy, Suite 100. Your appointment paperwork tells you which one. Please arrive early for registration and pre-procedure preparation.
Procedure day
- Performed using real-time imaging for accuracy.
- Minimal discomfort; we use local numbing for a comfortable experience.
- The entire procedure typically lasts about 10 minutes.
- You will be able to walk out and resume light activities immediately.
Benefits
- Direct anti-inflammatory effect: rapidly reduces the swelling causing your pain.
- Breaks the pain cycle: relieves the irritation that often prevents successful physical therapy.
- Targeted recovery: a non-surgical solution for localized bumping or rubbing pain in the joints.
Recovery
- Immediate relief from the local anesthetic lasts for several hours.
- Anti-inflammatory medication takes 2 to 5 days for full effect.
- After inflammation decreases, we will help identify underlying mechanical issues to prevent the bursitis from recurring.
Afterward: what to expect
- The window. You may feel immediate, temporary relief for several hours due to the local anesthetic.
- The flare. Expect a potential temporary increase in localized soreness or a bruised sensation for 2 to 5 days as the steroid takes effect. Use ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 off) for localized soreness.
- Results. Peak clinical relief typically occurs between 3 and 7 days after the injection.
- Blood glucose. If a steroid was included, expect a temporary rise in blood glucose that usually resolves within a few days. Diabetic patients should monitor their sugar levels closely for 48 to 72 hours after the procedure.
Activity
Wound care
Your procedure in one paragraph
You have undergone a bursa injection, a targeted procedure designed to treat inflammation in the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints. We have delivered a concentrated blend of local anesthetic and a powerful anti-inflammatory steroid directly into the bursa to reduce swelling, mute pain signals, and restore smooth movement in the affected area.
Follow-up schedule
- 1
1 month
Formal functional assessment of how well the injection worked.
Call us right away if you notice
- New or worsening leg weakness, numbness, or foot drop
- Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control
- Fever above 101.5°F, chills, or drainage at the site
- A severe headache that worsens when sitting or standing
This guide is the same information as the printed handout from Abilene Pain. It is general information and does not replace the instructions your care team gives you at your visit. Your care team: Nicolas Pugh, MD · Adrianne Anders, NP · Ted Chaka, PA.