Insulin Injection Sites

Smart Tips for Site Rotation

• Do not inject close to the belly button. The tissue there is tougher, so the insulin absorption will not be as consistent.
   
• For the same reason, do not inject close to moles or scars
   
• If you inject in the upper arm, use only the outer back area (where the most fat is). It is hard to pinch the upper arm when you are injecting yourself. Try pressing your upper arm against a wall or door.
   
• If you inject in the thigh, stay away from the inner thighs. If your thighs rub together when you walk, if might make the injection site sore.
   
• Do not inject in an area that will be exercised soon. Exercising increases blood flow, which causes long-acting insulin to be absorbed at a rate that’s faster than you need.
   
• Do not become a creature of habit! It might seem easier to find a spot that does not hurt and inject there all of the time. However, the result could be unpleasant swelling and lumps.
   
• You can reduce injection pain by choosing a needle length and gauge that are right for you.
   
• Move to a new injection site every week or two.
  • Inject in the same area of the body, making sure to move around within that area with each injection, for one or two weeks.
     
  • Then move to another area of your body and repeat the process.
     
  • Use the same area for at least a week to avoid extreme blood sugar variations.
     
• Rotate the sides (right, left) of your body where you inject within your injection sites.