Knee Osteoarthritis Corticosteroid Injections
Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that develops when the cartilage cushioning the knee joint gradually wears away. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility, making everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods increasingly difficult.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide ultrasound-guided knee osteoarthritis corticosteroid injections to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint function.
What Are Corticosteroid Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis?
Corticosteroid injections involve delivering a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the knee joint. In knee osteoarthritis, inflammation of the joint lining often plays a major role in pain and swelling. By targeting this inflammation at its source, corticosteroid injections can significantly reduce symptoms and improve comfort.
At Alton Pain Clinic, injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, allowing precise placement of the medication within the joint. This improves accuracy, effectiveness, and patient comfort compared to non-guided injections.
Who Can Benefit From This Treatment?
Knee osteoarthritis corticosteroid injections may be suitable if:
- Knee pain is limiting daily activities or sleep
- You experience swelling, stiffness, or flare-ups of pain
- Physiotherapy or oral medication has not provided enough relief
- You want to delay or avoid surgical intervention
These injections are particularly helpful during inflammatory flare-ups, when pain and swelling suddenly worsen.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your visit begins with a detailed consultation and musculoskeletal assessment to understand your symptoms, medical history, and activity levels. If required, an ultrasound scan will be carried out to confirm joint inflammation and guide treatment.
If the injection is appropriate, it can often be performed on the same day. The procedure itself takes only a few minutes. Most patients describe it as mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. You can usually walk out of the clinic afterwards and resume light activities the same day, avoiding strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours.
Benefits of Knee Corticosteroid Injections
- Rapid reduction in pain and swelling
- Improved mobility and joint comfort
- Targeted, localised treatment
- Minimally invasive with no hospital stay
- Supports ongoing physiotherapy and rehabilitation
Relief may last from several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of osteoarthritis and individual response.
Part of a Wider Treatment Plan
While corticosteroid injections can be very effective, they work best as part of a broader management plan. This may include physiotherapy, strength and mobility exercises, weight management, and activity modification to protect the joint long-term.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we focus on clear diagnosis, personalised care, and practical guidance to help you stay active and independent for as long as possible.
What our patients say
FAQs
How quickly will the injection work?
Many patients notice improvement within a few days, although it can take up to two weeks for full effect.
How long does the pain relief last?
Relief can last weeks or months. Results vary depending on the stage of osteoarthritis and activity levels.
Is the injection safe?
Yes, when performed by trained clinicians. Corticosteroid injections are widely used and generally well tolerated.
How many injections can I have?
Usually no more than three injections per year in the same knee. Your clinician will advise based on your condition.
Will I still need physiotherapy?
Yes. Physiotherapy is often recommended to strengthen the knee and maintain long-term improvement.