The speed at which a pain injection works depends on the specific medication used. While most therapeutic injections (like steroids) take 24 to 72 hours to reduce inflammation, many patients experience immediate relief within minutes if the injection includes a local anesthetic like lidocaine.
At Sahara West Urgent Care, we often use “cocktail” injections that combine fast-acting numbing agents for instant comfort with long-lasting anti-inflammatories to provide sustained relief over the following weeks.
How Fast Different Injections Provide Relief
The timeline for pain relief varies based on the type of treatment administered at our clinic:
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Local Anesthetics (Lidocaine/Bupivacaine): These work almost instantly (within 2–5 minutes) by numbing the nerves in the affected area. This effect typically lasts for several hours.
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Corticosteroids (Cortisone): These are not instant. They typically take 2 to 5 days to begin reducing the inflammation that causes chronic pain.
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Ketorolac (Toradol) Injections: A powerful NSAID that usually begins to reduce systemic or muscular pain within 15 to 30 minutes.
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Trigger Point Injections: These can provide near-immediate relaxation of muscle “knots,” though some soreness at the injection site may persist for a day.
The Diagnostic Process: Why an Exam is Required
Before administering any pain injection, a medical evaluation is essential to identify the root cause of your discomfort. At Sahara West Urgent Care, our providers perform:
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Symptom Assessment: Determining if the pain is nerve-based, muscular, or joint-related.
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On-Site Imaging: Using X-rays to ensure there are no fractures or underlying structural issues.
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Safety Screening: Checking for allergies or conditions like diabetes, as steroids can temporarily affect blood sugar levels.
Why Choose Sahara West Urgent Care for Your Treatment?
While some facilities only offer general care, Sahara West Urgent Care specializes in targeted pain management for acute flare-ups. We provide a range of injectable options designed to stop pain in its tracks and reduce the need for long-term oral medications. Our walk-in model means you don’t have to wait weeks for a specialist to get the relief you need today.
Ready to stop the pain? Book an appointment or walk into Sahara West Urgent Care today for expert medical attention and immediate care options.
