Joint Injections for Pain Relief
You may be referred for a steroid joint injection at the practice. Please read this important information prior to your appointment.
What is a joint injection?
A joint injection is a treatment where medication is injected directly into a joint (such as the knee, shoulder, hip, or elbow) to help reduce pain and inflammation. It is often used for conditions such as:
- Osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout or other inflammatory joint problems
What medications may be used?
- Corticosteroid (steroid) – to reduce inflammation and pain
- Local anaesthetic – to numb the area and give quick pain relief
Why is it done?
You may be offered a joint injection if:
- Tablets or creams have not controlled your pain
- You cannot take certain painkillers
- You need short-term relief to help you stay active or continue physiotherapy
How is the procedure done?
- The skin around the joint is cleaned carefully.
- A small needle is inserted into the joint space.
- The medication is injected – you may feel some pressure or mild discomfort.
- A plaster or small dressing is applied.
- The whole process usually takes about 10 minutes.
After the injection, you may be asked to stay in the practice for around 20 minutes. This is simply to make sure you feel well and have no immediate reaction to the injection. This is a routine safety measure and very rarely any problem occurs.
What to expect afterwards
- The joint may feel numb or sore for a few hours.
- Pain relief usually starts within a few days (sometimes sooner).
- The effect can last from several weeks to a few months.
It’s important to know that joint injections do not work for everyone. Some patients experience little or no improvement in pain or movement. This does not mean anything was done incorrectly – it simply means your joint may not respond as well to this treatment. Your doctor can discuss other options if this happens.
Aftercare advice
- Rest the joint for the rest of the day. Avoid heavy exercise for 48 hours.
- Use ice packs (15–20 minutes) if there is soreness.
- Continue gentle movement and physiotherapy as advised.
- You can take simple painkillers (paracetamol) if needed.
Possible side effects
Most people do not have any problems. Side effects are uncommon and usually short-lived. These may include:
- A temporary increase in pain for 24–48 hours (‘steroid flare’)
- Mild swelling or redness at the injection site
- Facial warmth or flushing
- Slight rise in blood sugar (in people with diabetes)
- Very rarely, an allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction – either local or more widespread. This is extremely rare and why you may be asked to stay in the clinic for a short time after your injection, just to ensure you are safe.
- Small risk of infection (very rare)
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice:
- Increasing pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the joint
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Difficulty moving the joint after 48 hours
How often can injections be given?
Usually no more than 3–4 times a year in the same joint. Your doctor will discuss what is safe and appropriate for you.
Alternatives to injections
- Exercise and physiotherapy
- Weight management
- Pain-relieving tablets or creams
- Joint supports or braces
- Surgery (in advanced cases)
Contact Information
Hawkinge and Elham Valley Practice
📞 01303 232300
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the surgery for advice.
This leaflet is provided for general information and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare professional.