Can a $2 freeze spray take the ouch out of joint shots?

NCT ID NCT06651788

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether spraying a numbing coolant (ethyl chloride) on the skin before a corticosteroid injection reduces pain and anxiety. 300 adults receiving their first joint or soft-tissue injection will be randomly assigned to get either the freeze spray or a placebo cold saline spray. Researchers will measure pain scores and patient satisfaction to see if the spray makes a real difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: ethyl chloride (freeze spray)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could provide a simple, low-cost way to make common joint injections less painful and anxiety-provoking.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial testing a temporary numbing spray. The effect may be small or no better than a placebo spray.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Iatrophobia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INJECTION COMPLICATION INJECTION FEAR INJECTION PAIN PREVENTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Chicago
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States

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