Are Arthrograms Painful?

Patients scheduled for an arthrogram frequently ask whether the procedure is painful. The honest answer is that the level of discomfort varies from person to person, but most patients tolerate the procedure well, especially with proper local anesthesia and an experienced physician.

The Injection: What Most Patients Feel

The most uncomfortable part of an arthrogram is typically the contrast injection into the joint. Here is what most patients report experiencing:

• Local anesthetic injection: The first needle delivers local anesthetic to numb the skin and soft tissue. This may cause a brief stinging or burning sensation for a few seconds.
• Joint access: Once the area is numb, the arthrogram needle is advanced into the joint. Most patients feel pressure or a dull ache rather than sharp pain.
• Contrast filling: As contrast fills the joint, you may feel a sensation of pressure, fullness, or tightness within the joint. This is typically not severely painful, though it can be uncomfortable.

During the MRI

The MRI imaging portion that follows the injection is painless. You will lie still inside the MRI machine while the images are acquired. The joint may feel slightly stiff or full due to the contrast, but no additional discomfort is introduced during the scan itself.

After the Procedure

It is common to experience mild soreness, swelling, or a feeling of fullness in the injected joint for 24 to 48 hours following the arthrogram. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are typically sufficient to manage any post-procedure discomfort. Most patients resume normal activities the following day.

Communicating with Our Team

If you have concerns about discomfort, do not hesitate to speak with our staff before or during the procedure. We are committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible and can discuss options for additional pain management when appropriate.