Joint pain can limit movement and affect everyday life. At Alton Pain Clinic, all joint injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, ensuring accurate placement and improved results.
What Are Joint Injections?
Joint injections involve placing medication directly into a painful or stiff joint. By treating the source of the problem rather than the symptoms alone, injections can reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness more effectively than oral medication.
Ultrasound guidance allows the clinician to see the joint in real time, helping ensure the medication is delivered precisely where it is needed.
How Cortisone (Steroid) Injections Work
Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication.
When injected into a joint, cortisone works by:
- Reducing inflammation within the joint
- Decreasing swelling and stiffness
- Relieving pain caused by irritation or flare-ups
Relief often begins within a few days and can last for several weeks or months, depending on the condition being treated.
How Hyaluronic Acid Injections Work
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in healthy joint fluid.
Hyaluronic acid injections work by:
- Improving joint lubrication
- Enhancing shock absorption
- Supporting smoother joint movement
These injections tend to work gradually, with benefits developing over several weeks and lasting for months in many patients.
Why Ultrasound Guidance Matters
At Alton Pain Clinic, joint injections are performed under ultrasound guidance to:
✔ Ensure precise placement of the injection
✔ Improve treatment effectiveness
✔ Reduce discomfort during the procedure
✔ Minimise risk to nearby nerves and blood vessels
Ultrasound-guided injections are more accurate than ‘blind’ injections, particularly in deeper joints such as the hip.
What to Expect During and After the Injection
- The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes
- Local anaesthetic is used to reduce discomfort
- Most patients can return to light activities the same day
- Mild soreness may occur for 24–48 hours
Pain relief may begin quickly or develop gradually, depending on the injection type.
Are Joint Injections Right for You?
Joint injections may be suitable if:
- Joint pain is affecting daily activities
- Conservative treatments have not been effective
- You are looking for a targeted, non-surgical option
A full assessment at Alton Pain Clinic will determine whether cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections are appropriate for your condition.
Book an Appointment at Alton Pain Clinic
If joint pain is limiting your movement or comfort, our experienced clinicians can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are joint injections?
Joint injections involve placing medication directly into a joint to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve movement.
What types of joint injections are available at Alton Pain Clinic?
We provide ultrasound-guided cortisone (steroid) injections and hyaluronic acid injections, depending on your symptoms and clinical assessment.
How do cortisone injections work?
Cortisone injections reduce inflammation inside the joint, helping to ease pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly during painful flare-ups.
How do hyaluronic acid injections work?
Hyaluronic acid injections improve joint lubrication and cushioning, allowing smoother movement and reducing discomfort over time.