It is fairly typical as we age to develop arthritis (pain, swelling and stiffness) in our joints.

Arthritis is a condition caused by “wear and tear” though genetics can play a role in the development and progression of the disease.

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When people come to our office complaining of joint stiffness and pain, x-rays often are ordered. If your x-rays show arthritis and/or fluid in the joint, it is frequently helpful to do a joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) to remove the excess fluid as well as inject the joint with steroids to decrease the inflammation.

This is a routine procedure that is performed frequently in our office by our trained family medicine professionals.

Patients will typically notice improvement in their pain at the time they leave the office in the pain relief may persist for up to six months or even longer.