Joint Injections

A joint injection delivers medication directly into or around a joint to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections are used to rapidly calm inflammation, while hyaluronic acid injections restore the joint's natural lubricating fluid. Both are used when other conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, or when a targeted approach is needed to create a window for rehabilitation.

Corticosteroid injections are powerful anti-inflammatories that work quickly — often within a few days — to reduce pain and swelling. They are best suited for acute inflammatory conditions such as bursitis, tendinopathy, and frozen shoulder. Hyaluronic acid injections work differently: they restore the joint's natural lubricating fluid, reducing friction and improving mobility. They are primarily used for osteoarthritis and offer longer-lasting relief of 6–12 months. Your clinician will recommend the most appropriate option based on your assessment.

This varies by injection type and individual. Corticosteroid injections typically begin to take effect within 2–5 days, with maximum benefit felt within 1–2 weeks. Hyaluronic acid injections generally take a little longer — most patients notice improvement within 2–4 weeks, with the full effect building over 4–8 weeks. It is normal to experience some mild soreness at the injection site for 24–48 hours after the procedure.

We advise patients not to drive themselves to and from their injection appointment as a precaution. If you have received an injection into a lower limb joint (knee, hip, ankle), you should not drive until normal sensation and control has fully returned. Please arrange for someone to collect you, or plan to use public transport on the day of your injection.

We recommend relative rest for 24–48 hours following your injection — avoiding strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercise. After this period, gentle activity is encouraged and will be guided by your clinician and your personalised aftercare plan. For Performance pathway patients, your in-clinic cryotherapy session will help manage the initial post-injection response.

For corticosteroid injections, the general recommendation is no more than 3–4 injections per joint per year, with a minimum of 3 months between injections. This is to minimise the risk of cartilage and soft tissue changes associated with repeated steroid use. Hyaluronic acid injections do not carry the same restriction and can generally be repeated as needed, typically every 6–12 months depending on the product used and individual response.

All medical procedures carry some risk. The most common side effect is a temporary post-injection flare — mild soreness and swelling at the injection site lasting 24–48 hours. Less common risks include infection, which is minimised by strict aseptic technique, skin or fat atrophy at the injection site with steroids, and temporary blood sugar elevation in diabetic patients. Your clinician will discuss all risks with you during the consent process, and you will receive full written information via your automated aftercare email.

Most patients describe the injection as a brief sharp sensation or pressure, similar to a standard blood test. Our clinicians are experienced and use a careful, precise technique to minimise discomfort. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes. If you are particularly anxious, please let your clinician know — we can take additional time to ensure you feel comfortable and in control throughout.

The right programme depends on your diagnosis, goals, and lifestyle. The Essential programme is suitable for straightforward presentations where targeted pain relief is the primary goal. The Optimise programme is ideal for active individuals who want to address the root cause and build lasting strength alongside their injection. The Performance pathway is recommended for athletes, those with moderate to advanced OA, or anyone who wants the most comprehensive, data-driven approach to recovery. Your clinician will make a formal recommendation at your assessment.

All assessments and injections are performed by one of our specialist Musculoskeletal (MSK) clinicians, who are fully qualified and experienced in delivering injection therapy. You will be in expert hands throughout your entire programme.

This is determined during your initial specialist assessment. Your clinician will conduct a thorough examination, discuss your history and goals, and confirm whether an injection is a safe and appropriate treatment for your specific condition. Injections are not suitable for everyone, and your clinician will always discuss all available options with you.

VALD is a state-of-the-art measurement system used by elite sports teams and professional rehabilitation clinics to measure strength, balance, and movement with objective, scientific data. It allows us to move beyond guesswork and track your rehabilitation progress with precision — giving you real evidence of your improvement. VALD testing is included in both the Optimise and Performance programmes.

Your journey starts with an initial specialist assessment. Click the "Book Your Assessment" button on this page or contact us directly. Our team will guide you to the most appropriate programme based on the clinician's findings. You do not need a GP referral to book.

No, you do not need a GP referral to access our injection therapy programmes. You can book directly with us. However, we always recommend informing your GP of any treatment you receive.