Intra-Articular Joint Injections
Introduction
Joint injections are a commonly used treatment to relieve pain and inflammation affecting joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, and hands. At our clinic, joint injections are performed by experienced doctors in a safe clinical environment following a full medical assessment.
We use state-of-the-art ultrasound guidance to deliver joint injections with precision, ensuring medication is placed exactly where it is needed. This improves accuracy, safety, and treatment outcomes for patients receiving intra-articular injections.
These injections can help reduce pain, improve movement, and support recovery when conservative treatments alone are not sufficient.
How Is a Joint Injection Given?
Joint injections are usually performed in the clinic procedure room. The procedure is quick and, in most cases, you can go home shortly afterwards.
- You will be positioned comfortably and asked to remain still
- The skin over the joint is thoroughly cleaned using antiseptic solution
- A fine needle is inserted into the joint space
- Medication is injected directly into the joint
- The needle is removed and a small dressing is applied
For deeper or technically difficult joints, such as the hip, ultrasound guidance may be used to improve accuracy and safety.
What Medications Are Used?
The most commonly used medications include:
- Corticosteroid injections
- Local anaesthetic for immediate pain relief
- In selected cases, hyaluronic acid injections
Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medicines that reduce swelling and pain within the joint. Hyaluronic acid helps improve lubrication within the joint, particularly in osteoarthritis.
The medication and dose used depend on the joint involved, your symptoms, and your medical history.
Conditions Treated
Joint injections may be used for:
- Osteoarthritis flare-ups
- Inflammatory joint pain
- Knee pain and swelling
- Shoulder pain including frozen shoulder and impingement
- Hip joint pain
- Elbow pain
- Pain and inflammation in hand joints
- Bursitis around joints
A clinical assessment is essential to confirm that an injection is appropriate.
Which Joints do We Treat?
We commonly perform injections for:
- Knee
- Shoulder
- Hip
- Elbow
- Hands and small joints
Not all joints are suitable for injection in every patient. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Who Can Have a Joint Injection?
Joint injections are offered to adults only, where clinically appropriate.
They may be suitable if:
- You have ongoing joint pain or inflammation
- Other treatments have not provided adequate relief
- There is no evidence of joint infection
- A doctor confirms it is safe to proceed
Who Should Not Have a Joint Injection?
Joint injections are not suitable if you:
- Have an infection in or around the joint
- Have had a serious allergic reaction to steroid medication, local anaesthetic, or antiseptics
- Have an unhealed wound near the injection site
Extra caution is needed if you:
- Have diabetes
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have weak bones or glaucoma
- Are taking blood-thinning medication
Your doctor will assess all risks before treatment.
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Joint injections are generally safe when performed by trained clinicians. Side effects are uncommon but may include:
- Temporary pain or swelling in the joint
- Bruising at the injection site
- Post-injection flare with increased pain for a short period
- Skin lightening or thinning at the injection site
- Very rarely, infection
Repeated injections into the same joint should be limited, as frequent steroid injections may weaken cartilage or surrounding tissues over time.
After the injection
- You can usually go home shortly after the procedure
- Mild discomfort may last 24–48 hours
- Avoid strenuous activity involving the joint for 24–48 hours
- Showering is allowed, but avoid baths, hot tubs, swimming pools, or saunas for 48 hours
- Pain relief may begin within days, or over several weeks for hyaluronic acid injections
Light activity such as walking is usually fine.
Book an appointment
If you are experiencing joint pain or stiffness that is affecting your daily activities, book a consultation to see if a joint injection is suitable for you. A face-to-face assessment is required before any injection is performed.
- Frequently asked Question
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We provide prompt medical assessment and treatment for minor illnesses, minor injuries, prescriptions, blood tests, medical advice, referrals and specialist consultations if needed.
We are open Monday to Saturday, 09:30 am – 06:00 pm.
Dr. Clinic is a private clinic. We do not accept Medical Cards, EU Health Cards, or the Under 6’s Scheme.
Yes. While payment is made at the clinic, you may request a headed receipt and submit it to your insurance provider for reimbursement.