Post-Arthrogram Care: Guidelines for Healing & Recovery

Post-arthography care typically involves some combination of the following guidelines or instructions to ensure proper healing and recovery:

Elevation: Keep the injected joint elevated above the heart for a period of time (usually several hours) to help reduce swelling and minimize pain.

Rest: Avoid strenuous activities or excessive weight-bearing on the injected joint for a certain period (as recommended by the doctor) to allow it to rest and recover.

Ice application: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the injection site periodically to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

Compression: In certain cases, a compression bandage or wrap may be applied to provide gentle compression and further reduce swelling.

Pain management: Take prescribed pain medication if necessary to manage discomfort or pain. Follow the dosage and instructions provided by your doctor.

Wound care: If the injection involved any breaks in the skin, keep the area clean and dry, and follow the specific wound care instructions provided by your doctor to prevent infection.

Limited mobility: Some mobility restrictions may be recommended, such as avoiding certain movements or positions that put stress on the injected joint, to facilitate proper healing.

Follow-up appointment: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss your progress, review the results of the arthography, and receive further instructions or care recommendations as needed.

Additional instructions: Additional care instructions may be provided by your doctor based on your individual situation and the nature of the arthography procedure performed.