How effective are injections for arthritis pain?

Injections for relieving arthritis pain are usually very effective, especially if a person has not responded to over-the-counter pain relievers or cannot take them due to side effects, according to WebMD. There are several types of injection available, and individual results often vary depending on which one a person receives.

Corticosteroid injections often work very quickly, within one or two days, and can last for several weeks, states WebMD. If corticosteroid shots are not an option, then a doctor may recommend hyaluronic acid injections. Short-term pain relief may not last long with this type of injection; however, the injection may provide more long-term benefits by controlling inflammation.