JOINT INJECTIONS
Joint pain can significantly affect daily life, making simple movements uncomfortable and reducing your ability to stay active.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide ultrasound-guided joint injections designed to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and restore mobility. Whether your symptoms are due to arthritis, injury, or long-term wear and tear, our targeted approach helps deliver relief right where it’s needed.
What Are Joint Injections?
Joint injections involve placing an anti-inflammatory medication directly into a painful joint. This medication is typically a corticosteroid, known for its strong and fast-acting ability to reduce swelling and discomfort. By treating inflammation at the source, joint injections can significantly improve function and comfort.
Commonly treated areas include:
- Knees
- Hips
- Shoulders
- Elbows
- Ankles
- Small joints of the hands or feet
Joint injections can be particularly beneficial for conditions such as osteoarthritis, bursitis, tendon irritation, and post-injury pain.
Ultrasound-Guided Precision
At Alton Pain Clinic, all joint injections are performed under ultrasound guidance. This technology allows our clinicians to clearly view the joint in real time, ensuring the medication is placed accurately in the affected area. This improves treatment effectiveness and minimises discomfort during the procedure.
Ultrasound guidance means:
- More precise targeting
- More effective pain relief
- Reduced risk of complications
A more comfortable experience for the patient
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your appointment begins with a detailed discussion and assessment to fully understand your symptoms. If appropriate, we will carry out an ultrasound scan during the same visit to confirm the source of pain. Many patients can receive the injection on the same day, avoiding long delays in treatment.
The injection itself usually takes only a few minutes. Most patients find the procedure quick and well-tolerated.
The Benefits of Joint Injections
- Reduced inflammation in the joint
- Pain relief, often within just a few days
- Improved mobility and function
- Ability to continue physiotherapy or rehabilitation more comfortably
- Can delay or avoid the need for surgery in some cases
Many patients experience relief lasting several weeks to several months, depending on their condition and lifestyle.
What our patients say
FAQs
How quickly will I feel relief?
Most patients notice improvement within a few days, although for some it may take up to two weeks.
How long does the pain relief last?
Relief can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. This varies depending on the condition being treated.
Will the injection hurt?
You may feel slight pressure, but discomfort is usually minimal. Ultrasound guidance helps ensure the procedure is gentle and accurate.
Can I drive after the injection?
Yes, most people can drive afterwards, but if your injection is in your leg, you may prefer to have someone drive you home.
How many injections can I have?
Typically, up to three injections per year in the same joint, depending on your response and condition.