If you’ve been recommended a knee injection, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: “Will it hurt?”
It’s completely normal to feel unsure, especially if you’ve never had an injection before. The good news is that most patients find the procedure far more manageable than they expected, and often well worth it for the relief it provides.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after a knee injection.
Do Knee Injections Hurt?
In most cases, knee pain injections are not painful, but you may feel some mild discomfort. Patients often describe the sensation as:
- A small scratch or pinprick when the needle is inserted
- A feeling of pressure within the joint
- Brief discomfort that lasts only a few seconds
At clinics like Alton Pain Clinic, injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, which helps ensure the needle is placed accurately and gently, reducing unnecessary discomfort.
In many cases, a local anaesthetic is also used, which helps numb the area and makes the procedure more comfortable.
What Happens Before the Injection?
Before the procedure, you’ll have a consultation to assess your symptoms and confirm whether an injection is the right treatment for you.
This may include:
- A discussion about your pain and medical history
- A physical examination
- An ultrasound scan to assess the joint
This step is important to ensure the injection is targeting the correct structure, whether that’s the joint itself or surrounding tissue.
What Happens During the Injection?
The procedure itself is usually quick, often taking just a few minutes.
Here’s what typically happens:
- The skin is cleaned to reduce the risk of infection
- A fine needle is guided into the knee using ultrasound
- The medication is injected into the joint
Most patients are surprised at how straightforward the process is. While you may feel slight pressure, the discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.
What Happens After the Injection?
After the injection, you can usually walk out of the clinic straight away. However, you may notice:
- Mild soreness around the injection site
- A feeling of fullness in the joint
- Temporary increase in pain (rare, but possible for 24–48 hours)
You’ll typically be advised to:
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours
- Gradually return to normal movement
- Follow any rehabilitation or physiotherapy advice
When Will You Feel Relief?
Relief doesn’t always happen immediately. Depending on the type of injection:
- Steroid injections may begin working within a few days
- Hyaluronic acid injections may take a few weeks to show full benefit
Many patients experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and better day-to-day comfort once the treatment takes effect.
Are Knee Injections Worth It?
For many people, the answer is yes.
Knee injections can:
- Reduce inflammation and swelling
- Improve movement and flexibility
- Make physiotherapy more effective
- Help delay or avoid more invasive treatments
They are not a cure, but they can provide a valuable window of relief to support recovery and long-term joint health.
When Should You Consider a Knee Injection?
You may want to consider an injection if:
- Knee pain is affecting your daily life
- Other treatments haven’t worked
- You’re struggling with stiffness or swelling
- You want to stay active without increasing pain
If you’re unsure, a professional assessment can help determine the best option for your condition.
Final Thoughts
Knee injections are a quick, targeted, and generally well-tolerated treatment. While the idea of an injection can feel daunting, most patients find the experience far easier than expected, and the results can make a significant difference.